Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in ...

Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California Version 1—Association Level and Specific Alliances A Report Submitted To National Park Service John Tizler, Plant Ecologist Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area 401 West Hillcrest Drive Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 By California Department of Fish and Game Wildlife and Habitat Data Analysis Branch and The California Native Plant Society Vegetation Program Sacramento, California And Todd Keeler-Wolf and Julie Evens With Assistance From Sau San Anne Klein Ed Kentner Michael Schindel Diana Hickson Julie Christian Charles Hohn

January 2006

Table of Contents INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................1 Background and Standards...............................................................................2 Figure 1: SPOT 2002 Satellite Image of Santa Monica Mountains with study area boundary in yellow. Note large expanse of urban to NE and SE, and mix of agriculture and urban to W and N, best viewed at 300-400% of current scale...............................................................................................4 NPS Field Crew and Supporting Staff ...............................................................7 Timeline.............................................................................................................8 METHODS..........................................................................................................10 Gradient Directed Sample Allocation...............................................................10 Figure 2. Ecological regions identified for vegetation assessment. ................13 Vegetation Sampling and Classification ..........................................................17 Data analysis process .....................................................................................18 RESULTS ...........................................................................................................31 Figure 3. An example of the cluster analysis dendrogram using Sorensen's distance measure and flexible beta linkage method, showing the relationship of individual samples and their final alliance names to the cluster breaks...........................................................................................34 Table 1 ............................................................................................................35 KEY.....................................................................................................................53 Table 2: Field key to the defined vegetation associations of The Santa Monica Mountains and Simi Hills area, Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California. .................................................................................................54 TREE OVERSTORY VEGETATION DESCRIPTIONS .......................................94 Alnus rhombifolia-Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest Association..............94 Eucalyptus Woodland/Forest Alliance .............................................................98 Juglans californica/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association..........101 Juglans californica/Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus Woodland/Forest Association.................................................................104 Juglans californica/Ceanothus spinosus Woodland/Forest Association ........107 Juglans californica/Heteromeles arbutifolia Woodland/Forest Association....110 Juglans californica/Malosma laurina Woodland/Forest Association ..............113

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Platanus racemosa South Coast Intermittent Stream Woodland/Forest Association.............................................................................................116 Platanus racemosa/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association.........119 Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia South Coast Woodland/Forest Association.............................................................................................123 Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia/Baccharis salicifolia/Artemisia douglasiana South Coast Woodland/Forest Association........................126 Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia-Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Association.............................................................................................130 Quercus agrifolia South Coastal Woodland/Forest Association ....................134 Quercus agrifolia/Adenostoma fasciculatum Woodland/Forest Association..137 Quercus agrifolia/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association ............140 Quercus agrifolia/Ceanothus spinosus Woodland/Forest Association ..........144 Quercus agrifolia/Heteromeles arbutifolia Woodland/Forest Association ......147 Quercus agrifolia/Quercus berberidifolia Woodland/Forest Association........150 Quercus agrifolia/Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica Woodland/Forest Association.............................................................................................153 Quercus agrifolia/Toxicodendron diversilobum Woodland/Forest Association ...............................................................................................................156 Quercus agrifolia-Juglans californica Woodland/Forest Association .............160 Quercus agrifolia-Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Association ...................163 Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica Woodland/Forest Association......166 Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica/Ceanothus oliganthus Woodland/Forest Association.................................................................170 Quercus lobata/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association ...............174 Quercus lobata-Quercus agrifolia/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association.............................................................................................177 Quercus lobata-Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Association......................180 Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Sub-alliance......................184 Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis/Artemisia douglasiana-Rubus ursinus/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association .............................................187 Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis/Baccharis salicifolia Woodland/Forest Association.............................................................................................191 Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Alliance .....................................................194 Salix lasiolepis/Baccharis salicifolia Woodland/Forest Association ...............198 Salix lasiolepis/Malosma laurina Woodland/Forest Association ....................201 Schinus molle Woodland/Forest Alliance ......................................................204 Umbellularia californica/Ceanothus oliganthus Woodland/Forest Association ...............................................................................................................207 Umbellularia californica-Alnus rhombifolia Woodland/Forest (provisional) Association.............................................................................................210 Umbellularia californica-Juglans californica/Ceanothus spinosus Woodland/Forest Association.................................................................214 Umbellularia californica-Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest Association ..217

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SHRUB OVERSTORY VEGETATION DESCRIPTIONS ..................................220 Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Association..223 Adenostoma fasciculatum-Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland Association .226 Adenostoma fasciculatum-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association .............229 Adenostoma fasciculatum-Malosma laurina-Eriodictyon crassifolium/ Annual Grass-Herb Shrubland Association ........................................................232 Adenostoma fasciculatum-Mimulus aurantiacus Shrubland Association.......235 Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia leucophylla Shrubland Association ...........238 Adenostoma fasciculatum-Adenostoma sparsifolium-Ceanothus crassifolius Shrubland Association ...........................................................................241 Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glandulosa Shrubland Association ...............................................................................................................244 Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glauca Shrubland Association.....247 Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus crassifolius-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association.............................................................................................250 Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus cuneatus-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association................................................................253 Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Association ...............256 Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association.............................................................................................259 Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera-Rhus ovata Shrubland Association ...............................................................................................................262 Adenostoma sparsifolium Shrubland Alliance ...............................................265 Arctostaphylos glandulosa Shrubland Alliance..............................................268 Arctostaphylos glauca Shrubland Alliance ....................................................271 Artemisia californica Shrubland Association..................................................274 Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus Shrubland Association ...............278 Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Association................281 Artemisia californica-Mimulus aurantiacus Shrubland Association................284 Artemisia californica-Eriogonum fasciculatum/Annual Grass-Herb Shrubland Association.............................................................................................288 Artemisia californica-Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia leucophylla Shrubland Association.............................................................................................292 Artemisia californica-Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Association.............................................................................................295 Atriplex lentiformis Shrubland Alliance ..........................................................298 Baccharis pilularis/Annual Grass-Herb Shrubland Association .....................301 Baccharis pilularis-Artemisia californica Shrubland Association....................304 Baccharis salicifolia Riparian Shrubland Association ....................................308 Ceanothus crassifolius Shrubland Association..............................................311 Ceanothus crassifolius-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association ..................314 Ceanothus cuneatus-Quercus berberidifolia Shrubland Association.............317 Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Association............................................320 Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Association..324 C11888-1/b

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Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma sparsifolium Shrubland Association ..327 Ceanothus megacarpus-Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Association .....330 Ceanothus megacarpus-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association ................333 Ceanothus megacarpus-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Association ..................336 Ceanothus oliganthus Shrubland Association ...............................................339 Ceanothus oliganthus-Adenostoma sparsifolium Shrubland Association......342 Ceanothus oliganthus-Heteromeles arbutifolia-Rhus ovata Shrubland Association.............................................................................................345 Ceanothus oliganthus-Quercus berberidifolia Shrubland Association ...........348 Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland Association .................................................351 Ceanothus spinosus-Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Association ..........355 Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Association ............................................358 Cercocarpus betuloides-Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Association ..361 Cercocarpus betuloides-Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland Association...........364 Cercocarpus betuloides-Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica Shrubland Association.............................................................................................367 Coreopsis gigantea-Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Association.............................................................................................370 Coreopsis gigantea-Ericameria ericoides-Encelia californica Shrubland Association.............................................................................................373 Dendromecon rigida Shrubland Alliance .......................................................376 Encelia californica Shrubland Association.....................................................379 Encelia californica-Artemisia californica Shrubland Association....................382 Encelia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Association...................386 Encelia californica-Malosma laurina-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Association 389 Encelia californica-Rhus integrifolia Shrubland Association ..........................392 Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Association.................................................395 Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland Association............................................398 Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association.............................................................................................402 Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia apiana Shrubland Alliance...........................405 Hazardia squarrosa/Nassella pulchra-Hemizonia fasciculata Shrubland ......409 Hazardia squarrosa-Artemisia californica Shrubland Association .................412 Heteromeles arbutifolia-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association .................415 Lepidospartum squamatum Shrubland Alliance ............................................419 Lotus scoparius Shrubland Association.........................................................422 Malacothamnus fasciculatus Shrubland Association.....................................425 Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Association ...............................................................................................................428 Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland Association ...431 Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association .........434 Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Salvia leucophylla Shrubland Association .......437 Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Association ...........440 Malosma laurina Shrubland Association .......................................................443 Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica Shrubland Association ......................447 C11888-1/b

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Malosma laurina-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Association .....................450 Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland Association ................454 Malosma laurina-Rhus ovata-Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Association ...............................................................................................................457 Malosma laurina-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Association ..............................460 Mesembryanthemum spp. - Carpobrotus spp. Semi-natural Shrubland Alliance ...............................................................................................................463 Mimulus aurantiacus Shrubland Association.................................................467 Opuntia spp.-Mixed Coastal Sage Scrub Shrubland Association..................471 Prunus ilicifolia-Heteromeles arbutifolia Shrubland Association ....................475 Quercus berberidifolia Shrubland Association...............................................479 Quercus berberidifolia-Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland Association .............483 Quercus berberidifolia-Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Association.....486 Quercus berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Association ........490 Quercus wislizenii var. frutescens Shrubland Alliance ..................................494 Rosa californica Shrubland Alliance ..............................................................497 Rhus integrifolia Shrubland Association ........................................................500 Rhus integrifolia-Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Association.............................................................................................504 Rhus integrifolia-Opuntia spp.-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Association 507 Rhus ovata Shrubland Association................................................................510 Rhus ovata-Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica Shrubland Association.513 Salix exigua Shrubland Alliance ....................................................................516 Salvia leucophylla Shrubland Association .....................................................520 Salvia leucophylla- Artemisia californica Shrubland Association ...................524 Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum/Nassella spp. Shrubland Association ...........................................................................528 Salvia leucophylla-Eriogonum cinereum/Annual Grass-Herb Shrubland Association.............................................................................................532 Salvia mellifera Shrubland Association .........................................................535 Salvia mellifera-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Association .......................539 Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association ..............................542 Salvia mellifera-Rhus ovata Shrubland Association ......................................546 Salvia mellifera-Artemisia californica Shrubland Association ........................549 Sambucus mexicana/Leymus condensatus-Annual Herb Shrubland Association.............................................................................................552 Sambucus mexicana-Heteromeles arbutifolia/Annual Grass-Herb Shrubland Association.............................................................................................556 Spartium junceum Shrubland Alliance...........................................................559 Toxicodendron diversilobum-Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus Shrubland Association ...........................................................................562 Toxicodendron diversilobum-Mimulus aurantiacus Shrubland Association ...565 Venegasia carpesioides Shrubland Alliance .................................................568 HERBACEOUS VEGETATION DESCRIPTIONS .............................................572 C11888-1/b

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Arundo donax Herbaceous Alliance ..............................................................572 Avena fatua Herbaceous Association............................................................575 California Annual Grassland/Herbaceous Alliance ........................................578 Brassica nigra Herbaceous Association ........................................................579 Brassica nigra-Bromus diandrus Herbaceous Association............................582 Brassica nigra-Centaurea melitensis Herbaceous Association .....................586 Bromus diandrus Herbaceous Association....................................................590 Bromus diandrus-Avena spp. Herbaceous Association.................................593 Distichlis spicata-Ambrosia chamissonis Herbaceous Association ...............597 Distichlis spicata-Salicornia virginica-Jaumea carnosa Herbaceous Association ...............................................................................................................600 Euphorbia terracina Herbaceous Stands.......................................................603 Foeniculum vulgare Herbaceous Alliance .....................................................607 Frankenia salina-Limonium californicum-Monanthochloe littoralis-Salicornia spp. Herbaceous Association.................................................................610 Juncus effusus Herbaceous Alliance.............................................................613 Lepidium latifolium Herbaceous Association .................................................616 Leymus condensatus Herbaceous Association .............................................619 Leymus triticoides Herbaceous Alliance........................................................622 Lolium multiflorum Herbaceous Association..................................................626 Nassella lepida Herbaceous Alliance ............................................................629 Nassella pulchra Herbaceous Alliance ..........................................................632 Nassella pulchra-Hazardia squarrosa Herbaceous Association ....................633 Pennisetum setaceum Herbaceous Alliance .................................................637 Pennisetum setaceum-Coreopsis gigantea-Yucca whipplei-Malosma laurina Herbaceous Association ........................................................................638 Phalaris aquatica Herbaceous Alliance .........................................................641 Salicornia virginica/Algae Herbaceous Association.......................................644 Salicornia virginica-Brassica nigra Herbaceous Association .........................647 Salicornia virginica-Frankenia salina-Suaeda taxifolia (synonym Suaeda californica var. taxifolia) Herbaceous Association ..................................650 Salicornia virginica-Salicornia subterminalis Herbaceous Association ..........653 Scirpus acutus-Scirpus californicus Herbaceous Alliance .............................656 Selaginella bigelovii/Eriogonum fasciculatum Association ............................659 Typha sp. Herbaceous Alliance....................................................................663 LITERATURE CITED........................................................................................666 APPENDIX 1. Vegetation sampling protocols and field forms. ........................677

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

INTRODUCTION The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and National Park Service (NPS) formed a partnership in 1994 to map the vegetation of the United States National Park system units using The Nature Conservancy's National Vegetation Classification, a standard for reporting vegetation information among federal agencies (Grossman et al. 1998). Goals of the projects include providing baseline ecological information to resource managers in the parks; putting the data into regional and national contexts; and providing opportunities for future inventory, monitoring, and research activities. Each park developing a vegetation map follows a standardized field sampling and vegetation classification protocol to document the various vegetation types found in that park. This information is used by photointerpreters to delineate polygons of vegetation communities, which are subsequently subjected to an accuracy assessment process (USGS 1994). The final products consist of a vegetation map, descriptions of each vegetation type, a key to each type, and all related data and metadata files (original field forms, plot database, accuracy assessment points, etc.). This report presents the work at the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (NRA) (park code: SAMO) and environs conducted from 2001 to 2005. The Santa Monica Mountains in Context The Santa Monica Mountains are not only the most accessible and largest piece of natural land adjacent to the western Los Angeles Basin but also play an important role in the panoply of vegetation in southern coastal California. Fire history, soil differences, a variety of moisture regimes, and topography all combine to create complex patterns of woodland, chaparral, coastal scrub, and grassland vegetation. The mountains are home to several locally common but regionally restricted species (such as Ceanothus spinosus, C. megacarpus, Eriogonum cinereum, and Coreopsis gigantean), each because of its high sociability and abundance defines its own suite of vegetation types. Other alliances defined by Encelia californica, Salvia leucophylla, Juglans californica, and Rhus integrifolia are widespread in southern coastal California but display a concentrated distribution and a broader variation of vegetation associations here than anywhere else. The Santa Monica Mountains are the westernmost and lowest of the transverse ranges of southern California. They have small stands of high-elevation chaparral alliances such as Quercus wislizeni var. frutescens and Arctostaphylos glandulosa, remnants of a cooler and perhaps moister climate. However, they are tall enough to sustain a more extensive presence of some higher-elevation chaparral alliances such as Ceanothus oliganthus and Adenostoma sparsiflora.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

They also contain the southernmost viable stands of Quercus lobata woodlands in California and among the largest remaining woodlands of Juglans californica. The seaward bases of the mountains have Baja, California-like succulent coastal scrub including stands of Opuntia littoralis, O. oricola, and O. prolifera along with drought deciduous scrubs including Salvia leucophylla, Artemisia californica, and the largely insular Coreopsis gigantea. The core of the mountains includes thousands of acres and varied examples of Ceanothus spinosus and C. megacarpus alliances, both representing the center of their world distribution. Riparian vegetation includes extensive woodlands of Platanus racemosa, Salix lasiolepis, and S. laevigata, which often interface with lower slope woodlands of Quercus agrifolia, Juglans californica, and Umbellularia californica. Further south, the latter two alliances diminish significantly, thus signifying the biogeographic role of the Santa Monica Mountains as crossroads between northern and southern California coastal vegetation.

Background and Standards The U.S. National Vegetation Classification (USNVC) applied throughout this report was developed by NatureServe in partnership with the network of State Natural Heritage Programs (under the guidance of The Nature Conservancy). Additional support was provided by federal agencies and the Ecological Society of America. A first edition of the classification has been released that provides a thorough introduction to the classification, its structure, and the list of vegetation units known in the United States as of April 1997 (Grossman et al. 1998). Refinements to the classification have been occurring in the application process, leading to ongoing proposed revisions that are reviewed both locally and nationally. These refinements are best seen using the NatureServe Web site at http://www.natureserve.org/explorer/. Vegetation mapping in national parks has been done under the auspices of the NPS Inventory and Monitoring Program, in close cooperation with the USGS Biological Resources Division. The mapping is done in accordance with standards established by the Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC) for vegetation mapping on federal lands. The FGDC Web site (http://www.fgdc.gov/standards/standards_publications/index_html) explains the development of the classification standards currently used for mapping and classifying vegetation in national park. The USGS Biological Resources Division—NPS Vegetation Mapping project Web site (http://biology.usgs.gov/npsveg/standards.html) has additional information on vegetation mapping in national parks.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

The development of a vegetation classification and concomitant map is a complex project. Not all vegetation types are equally mappable at a certain scale. Coordination between the vegetation classification team and the aerial photointerpreters is needed to resolve the best way to map the types, whether directly at the finest association level, at the higher-classification levels (such as at the alliance), or as a mosaic or complex. Thus, not all types described in this report are necessarily mapped directly. A separate report documents the link between the mapping and the field-based vegetation classification (AIS 2005, in preparation). Initially in the mid 1990s, several California parks were chosen by USGS-NPS to be part of the prototype phase of the program representing different regions, environmental conditions, and vegetation types. The initial goal of the prototype phase is to "develop, test, refine, and finalize the standards and protocols" to be used during the production phase of the project. The program includes the development of a standardized vegetation classification system for each park and the establishment of photointerpretation, field sampling, and accuracy assessment procedures. Following initial projects of classification and mapping of Point Reyes National Seashore (2003), Golden Gate National Recreation Area (2003), Yosemite National Park (2003), Joshua Tree National Park (2005), and Sequoia National Park (2004), the decision to develop a map was made by SAMO staff based on (1) a desire to maintain consistency with the work done at these other parks, (2) the quality of the work performed at these parks, and (3) sufficient development and testing (proven application) of protocols and procedures. SAMO is situated in an urban-wildland interface in the south coastal portion of Southern California. As such, it is the first national park unit to be mapped and classified in California where fire management and fuels prediction attain such a critical level. Funding for this project came largely from the NPS Fire Management Program. Results from this report and the associated vegetation map are expected to inform fire management decisions for SAMO and the adjacent areas. Because ownership is complex in the Santa Monica Mountains, the park determined that a complete classification and map of the environs of the entire area were necessary to properly deal with integrated management issues. The area in this study covers approximately 350,000 acres and stretches from Point Mugu and the associated Mugu Lagoon tidal marsh on the west to Griffith Park in the city of Los Angeles to the east. It reaches from Point Dume and Malibu on the south to the Simi Hills and Montcleff Ridge on the north (figure 1).

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Figure 1: Shown is a SPOT 2002 satellite image of Santa Monica Mountains with the study area boundary in yellow. Note the large expanse of urban to the northeast and southeast and mix of agriculture and urban to the west and north. This image is best viewed at 300–400 percent of current scale.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

The Santa Monica Mountains NRA extends 46 miles from the Hollywood Bowl to Point Mugu in Ventura County. It also runs along the coastline from the Santa Monica Pier west past Malibu. The U.S. Congress created the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in 1978 and charged NPS with supporting a shared management of the park. NPS, State Parks, and the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy jointly administer the public parklands of the area. In the immediate vicinity of the park live approximately 17 million people. With respect to landowners, the California State Parks is the largest landowner within the recreation area with 42,000 acres. However, approximately half the land in the recreation area is privately owned and more than 70 government entities have jurisdiction within the boundary. The city of Malibu is entirely within the park's boundary. The recreation area is approximately154,000 acres. However, in an effort to develop an ecologically realistic and managerially usefull map, more than double that area has been included in this study. This report outlines and describes the project timeline, vegetation classification methodologies, sampling criteria, and data analysis procedures implemented in creating the final vegetation layer for SAMO. It describes the result of this classification process in terms of a formal classification list, key, and description of all vegetation types identified during this process. Funds for this project were provided by the National Park Service Fire Management Program, National Park Service Inventory and Monitoring Program, Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy), United States Army Corps of Engineers, and the Resource Management Agency of Ventura County. Initial funding for the project was received in 2001 and a contract was entered into with ESRI to develop a vegetation classification and map. Primary responsibility for development of the classification was assigned to Todd Keeler-Wolf (California Department of Fish and Game [CDFG], California Heritage Program senior vegetation ecologist) and Julie Evens (California Native Plant Society [CNPS] vegetation ecologist). John Tiszler served as the NPS contracting officer's technical representative and project manager. NPS assumed responsibility for field data collection, vegetation database management, and statistical analyses. As the contract for the classification and portion of the project was developed, NPS worked with ESRI as the principal contractor and ESRI subcontracted with the California Native Plant Society via the California Heritage Program ecologist (housed at California Department of Fish and Game), representing NatureServe in California. ESRI also subcontracted with Aerial Information Systems of

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Redlands, California, to produce the map driven by the classification developed by CNPS and CDFG. The primary motivation for this project was to produce a new vegetation classification and map that meets NPS and USNVC standards and to provide the information base necessary to develop effective fire hazard management strategies while fully protecting natural resource values. In addition, we anticipate the classification and map will have many uses for the numerous public planning and land conservation agencies with jurisdiction in the Santa Monica Mountains and Simi Hills. The classification and map will provide a highly detailed spatial assessment of native vegetation and, as such, will be a valuable planning tool where habitat connectivity, sensitive vegetation types, and protection of designated Ecologically Significant Habitat Areas are of concern. The capacity to make local vegetation management and other land-use decisions will be greatly improved. The principal needs for this mapping project were the following: •

Implement a GIS-based, gradient-directed transect (GRADSECT) approach for sampling.

•

Integrate the vegetation sampling process with the photointerpretation process so a seamless, mutually beneficial feedback loop would develop, with the field crews providing information to the mapping team at the same time mappers would be supporting decisions by field crews about where and what to sample.

•

Integrate any existing or ongoing vegetation data with the necessary field data to be collected during this project into a unified vegetation classification that would be used for the final vegetation description and vegetation mapping products.

•

Work with the unique characteristics of a chaparral and coastal sage scrub and develop the best methods for detailed classification and mapping of this vegetation.

•

Work within a complex urban-wildland area surrounded on all sides by major population centers to develop a detailed classification and map that would address many key issues of urban-wildland vegetation management.

The scientific purpose of developing the classification for the area to be mapped was to integrate a large amount of new information into California's vegetation C1188-1/c

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

classification and USNVC. This report provides the basis to achieve that goal. By standardizing the reporting structure of each new classification unit, NatureServe will be able to integrate this information into the national vegetation classification. This project was the first effort to extensively employ the CNPS Rapid Assessment Vegetation Sampling Protocol, as seen through the following link: http://www.cnps.org/programs/vegetation/protocol.htm. This technique was selected in addition to the standard accuracy assessment sampling protocol and the relevé sampling protocol used regularly by the National Park vegetation program because of its ability to represent large numbers of vegetation stands quickly, thus increasing the sample size and range of sampling locations for all types of vegetation. The rapid assessment protocol was expected to be an efficient way to inventory many dense and difficult to penetrate stands of chaparral and coastal scrub, where the species indicative of particular ecological settings are primarily in the shrub layer and not in the understory herb and grass layer. It was used extensively in virtually all types of vegetation in this project except for the species-rich riparian, oak, and other hardwood woodlands; coastal sage scrub; and grasslands in which releves were used to augment the samples. The diversity of species and the more significant variation of understory species in these situations require a full sample of all species present to more accurately classify and understand the variations in these types of vegetation. For a thorough explanation of the protocol see appendix 1.

NPS Field Crew and Supporting Staff Five crew members were hired or reassigned by the park in the summer of 2003. They were James Anderson, Rachel Buchwalter, Julie Christian, Charles Hohn, and Mike McGraw. Park staff Brendan Clark and Tarja Sagar also assisted with surveys on an intermittent basis. Christian served as crew leader and was responsible for scheduling and assignment of all field and laboratory activities. Buchwalter left the project in 2003, and the crew continued as four members with intermittent staff support until field sampling was completed. In total, more than 6,700 vegetation stands were visited to obtain information necessary for classification and photointerpreter training. Christian was responsible for management of the vegetation databases including data quality assurance and control. She maintained and updated the metadata that recorded changes to the evolving classification. She also organized data into formats suitable for statistical analysis. Park GIS analyst Robert Taylor performed the statistical analyses with support from Christian.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Timeline 2001 From June 18–20, an initial reconnaissance of the SAMO area was conducted by the CDFG state ecologist and the principal ecologist of the park. An initial classification list was developed following that meeting. Aerial photography was acquired in July 2001. On November 8, a meeting was held at SAMO to bring together the project team members from the NatureServe, ESRI, AIS, and CDFG as well as other outside participants knowledgeable in the vegetation of the Santa Monica Mountains. This meeting focused primarily on discussing the Vegetation Inventory and Mapping Program, existing park data, logistics, and park-specific issues. A general overview of the project and processes involved was outlined. 2002 In February, the CDFG state ecologist met with the SAMO GIS staff to begin developing a gradient-directed approach to identifying initial sampling and mapping areas in the park. This work was continued through mid-March by the SAMO GIS staff. Beginning in March, reconnaissance trips including the photointerpreters from AIS, park ecologists, and CDFG state ecologist began. These were two- to three-day trips that were intended to augment the preliminary vegetation classification and familiarize the air photointerpreters with the vegetation of the region. Each trip focused on a separate portion of the study area. The second reconnaissance trip was conducted from April 22–24, followed by the subsequent revision of the preliminary classification. The CNPS vegetation ecologist joined the team of AIS, CDFG state ecologist, and the SAMO field team and associated park ecologists. The third reconnaissance trip was conducted in June and consisted of the same members. The vegetation sampling field crew was hired in July 2002 and served through completion of the vegetation classification in January 2005. Training of crews in the use of the rapid assessment sampling protocol was conducted in July by the CDFG state ecologist and assistant ecologist, Diana Hickson. The fourth reconnaissance trip was conducted in early September, followed by subsequent revision of the preliminary classification. Training for releve and accuracy assessment sampling protocols was conducted in early December.

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2003 In March, the fifth reconnaissance trip was conducted, followed by subsequent revision of the preliminary classification. In July, the first intensive analysis of 11 months (1,807 individual samples) of rapid assessment plots was conducted. Data was prepared by Julie Christian, and initial TWINSPAN and cluster analyses were run by Robert Taylor with assistance from Julie Evens and Todd Keeler-Wolf. Three days of intensive analysis were conducted by this group with assistance in local interpretation by all members of the field crew. Following this classification, a meeting with the photointerpreters was held to translate the vegetation classification to an updated mapping classification. In August, a revised classification list was produced using the existing and newly adjusted recommended sample sizes of vegetation types to fully represent the vegetation categories established and assumed to occur. In the last five months of 2003 and the first few months of 2004, vegetation data collection emphasized more accuracy assessment and releve samples. 2004 In June, an intensive analysis of the full dataset of 3,790 rapid assessments, accuracy assessments, and 122 releves was undertaken in a meeting between CDFG, CNPS, and SAMO ecologists. Prior to the meeting, Taylor and Christian undertook the data preparation and initial cluster analysis runs for the rapid assessment data, and CNPS ecologists Klein and Evens undertook the analysis for the relevé data. This analysis meeting was followed by several more days of intensive analysis by CDFG and CNPS to produce the full classification. In November and December, this classification was simplified and some initial types were reduced to synonymy or subcategories of associations called phases, with consulatation with Gwen Kittel, NatureServe's regional ecologist. 2005 In January, the classification was finalized, and description format was decided upon by all of the collaborators. Descriptions were begun by CNPS with assistance from NatureServe (and Nature Conservancy subcontractor) and CDFG. In April, all initial description data was summarized.

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In June, all full descriptions were written and submitted for review, and in July to December 2005, the report was reviewed by SAMO staff and finalized January 2006. METHODS Gradient-Directed Sample Allocation To strategically assess the vegetation of the area, an interactive process was developed between the SAMO field sampling team and the aerial photointerpreters at AIS. This revolved around the selection of individual subareas centered on 180 aerial photos at 1:12,000 scale from the study area. Each of these subareas was selected through a GIS analysis of the environmental variables thought to drive the distribution of the principal vegetation types in the area. Denise Kamradt and Robert Taylor of SAMO and Todd Keeler-Wolf of CDFG met and developed the criteria based on a combination of geologic, precipitation, temperature, and solar insolation (based on slope and aspect) information available in the SAMO GIS files. Specifically the process included three main components: 1. Classifiying a March solar radiation layer into three classes. A 900-meter grid was created over the study area with all grid cells that did not contain all three solar radiation classes removed. This is the radiation_variety grid. 2. Classifiying and combining layers for (a) fire history, (b) geology, (c) average annual precipitation, and (d) average maximum July temperature. The resulting layer was a raster with a 30-meter cell that was modified in the following way:
Masked out cells that were not on public land
Masked out cells that fell within the larger 900-meter radiation_variety, where not all three solar radiation categories were represented 3. From the resulting layer, a list of all unique combinations of the four input layers was developed and modified in the following way:
Masked out cells for unique combinations with fewer than 900 cells each
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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

The result is the GRADSECT layer. From the GRADSECT layer, one point was randomly selected for each unique combination of the four input layers.The result was a table of 93 "GRADSECT" points. These points became the core of initial sample selection for the field crew and also were expanded upon for further sampling later in the field seasons of 2002 and 2003. Broader interpretation of the environmental variables developed from the GRADSECT analysis resulted in the development of an ecological subregionalization of the study area. The first cut of climate and geology produced a total of seven general subregions (figure 2). These regions are briefly described below. The photointerpretation team selected 180 aerial photographs that were considered representative of each of these subregions. For each of 180 aerial photos selected as the first phase of development, a number of possible sampling locations in parklands were selected representing the range of environmental conditions found in the analysis.

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Figure 2. Ecological Regions Identified for Vegetation Assessment

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The following descriptions serve as brief characterizations of each of these seven regions. Region 1 Title: Western Fog Zone (CSS on Volcanics) General Location: Far West End of Range as Hits Oxnard Plain Ave-Hi/Low Summer Temp: (Camarillo) 75/55 Ave-Hi/Low Winter Temp: 65/45, Records Below 32 Fog Description: Often Foggy, Possible Year-Round Precipitation: 10–15", Lower than Region 2 Geology: Igneous > Quaternary >> Low Sedimentary Soil: Incomplete, Coastal Sage > Igneous Chaparral Elevation Range: 0–1800' Region 2 Title: Immediate Coast (CSS) General Location: East-West Band along Immediate Coast, South-Facing Slope of Mountains Ave-Hi/Low Summer Temp: (Malibu) 70/60 Ave-Hi/Low Winter Temp: 65/50, No Record Lows Below 32 Fog Description: Often Foggy, Possible Year-Round Precipitation: 15–18", Higher than Region 1 Geology: Sedimentary >> Quaternary ~ Igneous Soil: Coastal Sage > Sedimentary Chaparral > Coastal Terrace > Sandstone Chamise/Chaparral > Igneous Chaparral Elevation Range: 0–1500' Region 3 Title: Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains (Chaparral) General Location: South-Facing Slope of Mountains, Mid to Top Ave-Hi/Low Summer Temp: Ave-Hi/Low Winter Temp: Fog Description: Mostly Spring Precipitation: 18–23", 28" at Highest Elevations Geology: Sedimentary > Igneous >> Quaternary Soil: Sedimentary Chaparral ~ Sandstone Chamise/Chaparral ~ Igneous Chaparral Elevation Range: 1000–3100'

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Region 4 Title: Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains (Chaparral) General Location: North-Facing Slope of Mountains, Mid-Lower Ave-Hi/Low Summer Temp: (Newbury Park) 80/50, Record Highs in 100s Ave-Hi/Low Winter Temp: 70/40, Record Lows in Lower 20s Fog Description: Usually in Spring Precipitation: 18" Geology: Igneous > Sedimentary > Quaternary Soil: Incomplete, Igneous Chaparral > Marine Sedimentary >> Coastal Terrace Elevation Range: 1000–2000' Region 5 Title: Inland Dry (CSS) General Location: South-Facing Slope of Simi Hills, Lower Slope Ave-Hi/Low Summer Temp: (Thousand Oaks + Moorpark) 90/55, Record Highs in 110s Ave-Hi/Low Winter Temp: 70/40, Record Lows in 20s (Moorpark is a bit more mild.) Fog Description: Spring Only Precipitation: 13–18" Geology: Sedimentary > Quaternary > Igneous Soil: Incomplete, Marine Sedimentary Elevation Range: 900–1800' Region 6 Title: Simi Hills Inland (Chaparral) General Location: Simi Hills, Mid to Top Slope Ave-Hi/Low Summer Temp: Ave-Hi/Low Winter Temp: Fog Description: Spring, Early Summer Precipitation: 18" Geology: Almost Exclusively Sedimentary >>> Igneous = Quaternary Soil: Incomplete, Marine Sedimentary Elevation Range: 900–2400' Region7 Title: Eastern Urban (Chaparral) General Location: Far East, Urban Ave-Hi/Low Summer Temp: (Beverly Hills) 75/60, Record Highs in 100s

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Ave-Hi/Low Winter Temp: 65/50, Record Lows in Mid 30s Fog Description: Unknown Precipitation: 18–22" Geology: Sedimentary > Igneous > Metamorphic >> Quaternary Soil: Incomplete, Sedimentary Chaparral/Urban Land, Urban Land Elevation Range: 400–1750' Sources used to define these regions include the following: Precipitation This layer represents lines of equal rainfall (isohyets) based on long-term mean annual precipitation data compiled from USGS, California Department of Water Resources, and California Division of Mines map and information sources. Source maps are based primarily on U.S. Weather Service (USWS) data for approximately 800 precipitation stations. In the Los Angeles and San Francisco Bay areas, the USWS data has been supplemented by county and local agency precipitation data. The data was collected over a 60-year period (1900-1960). Minimum mapping unit is 1,000+ acres. The isohyetal contour intervals differ because of the degree of variation of annual precipitation with horizontal distance. Geology Existing USGS digital ArcInfo coverages were downloaded from the Southern California Aerial Mapping Project (SCAMP) subheading on the Western Region Digital Geologic home page (http://geology.wr.usgs.gov/wgmt/scamp/la/laquad.html) and imported into ArcInfo. Each quadrangle on the SCAMP page has separate digital data layers available describing the bedrock and superficial geology, structural geology, and paleontological resources of the area. Only bedrock and superficial geologic information was acquired and processed by the National Park Service. Soil 1970, USDA Soil Conservation Service, "Soil Survey, Ventura Area, California" 1967, USDA Soil Conservation Service, "Soils of the Malibu Area, California" Temperature www.weather.com Within each of these seven regions, a representative proportion of the total 180 photos was selected based on the aerial extent and ecological diversity of each

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subregion. Within each of the areas covered by these individual air photos, a random selection of points was made that focused on the variety of solar insolation settings within them. These points were given to the field crews as a set of possible choices to visit for individual field sampling. All selected sample locations were restricted to parkland. Field Sampling A preliminary classification was developed (see Existing Literature Review section below) following the reconnaissance trips and given to the Park vegetation sampling crew to assist them in identifying individual stands for rapid assessment or releve sampling. This classification list was used in conjunction with the ongoing photointerpretation work by the photointerpretation contractor, Aerial Information Systems. The interplay between the photointerpreters and the field crew included requests by AIS for field identification of representative photo signatures. These were accomplished in either rapid assessment or less complete reconnaissance-level field checks, where the main species and the preliminary classification name of individual stands were delivered to AIS. The data sharing between the field crews and the photointerpreters was one of the key points in this vegetation mapping effort. Compared to earlier National Park mapping efforts in California, it attained much higher levels of refinement and cooperation. Field crews relied on the photointerpreters for preliminary delineations to assist them in targeting stands to be sampled. Thus, as individual aerial photos were delineated and labeled, field crews would focus on a particular aerial photo to field check, dividing their efforts between rapid assessment, releve, reconnaissance and, as the process ramped-up in the later phases of fieldwork, more accuracy assessment fieldwork. The latter sampling was done and then withheld from the photointerpreters until the completion of their work to apply a nonbiased way to test the accuracy of their work. More detailed descriptions of this process may be found in the final report by the photointerpreters. Vegetation Sampling and Classification Existing Literature Review Beginning in early April 2003, information from a California vegetation classification (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995), recent classifications for adjacent areas of southern California (CDFG 1998, Borchert et al. 2004, then in draft form, Gordon and White 1994), and other existing literature were reviewed to obtain a current view of the local vegetation with respect to the National Vegetation Classification (Grossman et al. 1998). This information was compiled into a

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preliminary, floristic classification of vegetation at the alliance and association levels. Further, the initial reconnaissance of the study area supplemented this classification. The initial inventory included nearly 100 associations and suggested about 150 alliances in the mapping area. Data Analysis Process The sample dataset used for the classification included 3,790 vegetation rapid assessments, which were completed year-round from July 2002 to April 2004, and 122 releve samples, which were completed in the phenologically active periods of spring and summer from February to June 2003. The very large number of samples collected for this project far exceeded any previous study for a given National Park unit. Thus, special techniques were employed to analyze the data. This included an intermediate analysis that informed and refocused the final phase of data collection. In June 2003, following the first full season of data collection, 1,807 rapid assessment samples were analyzed. This involved three intensive days of progressive fragmentation of cluster analysis and individual plot-by-plot inspection of the results. In addition to Julie Evens and Todd Keeler-Wolf, data analysis was assisted and or performed by Robert Taylor of SAMO, who initially ran the data through TWINSPAN and cluster analysis, and Julie Christian, who performed queries in MS Access to summarize the data and facilitate its interpretation. The 1,807 samples were broken into seven major groups based on their broad relationships within cluster analysis. Each of these major groups was further analyzed, and preliminary association names were revised or substantiated for many of these groups. Following this analysis, it was also possible to review the entire preliminary classification and determine how many samples had been collected for each of the types, and conversely, how many more samples needed to be collected for remaining types not yet adequately sampled. One year later, more than twice as many samples had been collected by the field crews. Another classification marathon for one week was set up, where the principal data analysis personnel reconvened to analyze approximately 3,915 vegetation samples. In addition to Evens and Keeler-Wolf, Anne Klein, CNPS vegetation ecologist, was employed to assist in the analysis. A similar process was conducted including individual analysis of each plot after they had been divided into progressively smaller and smaller groups based on cluster analysis. A database was built by Christian specifically for tracking the classification results. In this session, approximately 90 percent of the samples were assigned to vegetation types defined by their relationships and similarities.

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Following this meeting, another meeting to refine the classification and define the classification units in terms of mapping units for AIS was held at the AIS office in Redlands. The translation of vegetation units to mappable units was largely accomplished. However, additional refinement was needed to finalize the classification. Keeler-Wolf, Klein, and Evens (the classification team) continued to refine the classification in the fall of 2004. They refined the classification and adjusted some of the finer cluster units of the analysis, proposing that some be aggregated into larger units instead of remaining individual associations. Several detailed meetings of the SAMO ecologists and the CNPS and CDFG ecologists ensued, also involving the regional NatureServe ecologists. In December 2004, a final classification was agreed upon enabling the formal description writing and key development associated with this report. Cluster Analyses for Vegetation Classification Following the 2002–2003 sampling effort by the field staff, the rapid assessment and releve data were statistically analyzed. The classification team worked with Robert Taylor and Julie Christian from the SAMO team to classify the data. The analysis was undertaken using the PC-ORD software suite of classification and ordination tools (McCune and Mefford 1997). PC-ORD performs multivariate analyses to place vegetation plot samples into a formalized classification of community types. Using programs such as TWINSPAN (Hill 1979), cluster analysis, and ordination (McCune and Mefford 1997), groups are defined by similarities in species composition and abundance. Since plant community datasets are inherently complex and more than one environmental axis determines the heterogeneity in plant patterns, a hierarchical agglomerative cluster analysis technique was employed with Sorenson distance and flexible beta linkage method at -0.25 (McCune and Grace 2002). The cluster analysis technique was based on abundance (cover) values converted to seven different classes using the following modified Braun-Blanquet (1932/1951) cover categories: 1 = < 1%, 2 = 1–5%, 3 = > 5–15%, 4 = > 15–25%, 5 = > 25–50%, 6 = > 50–75%, 7 = > 75%. The majority of the species values fell within the first four cover classes. Prior to these analyses, data was screened for outliers (extreme values of sampled stands or species), and these outliers were removed to reduce heterogeneity and increase normality in the dataset. Samples that were more than three standard deviations away from the mean were removed using outlier analysis in PC-ORD, and species that were in fewer than three samples were removed.

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Because of the size and heterogeneity of the initial dataset, a first-order cluster analysis was used to partition the dataset into more manageable subsets. Thus, the main dataset was broken into distinct, smaller subsets of around 100–200 samples, and these smaller subsets were then individually analyzed by 2–3 teams of ecologists. Subsets of individual smaller cluster groupings usually included distinctly different vegetation types or habitats. A cluster analysis was run separately for the releve data because the species data was collected differently for the releve than for the rapid assessment method (i.e., data on all species found in defined plots for relevés as compared to data on the 10–20 main species found in stands for the other assessments). After the cluster analyses, Indicator Species Analysis (ISA) was employed to decide objectively what group level(s) to "cut" from the dendrogram and explicitly interpret the groups. Further, ISA was used to designate species that indicate the different groups. ISA produced indicator values for each species in each of the groups within the dendrogram, and these species were tested for statistical significance using a Monte Carlo technique (Dufrene and Legendre 1997). In this case, indicator species with the highest values are the ones that show the highest fidelity for a particular cluster grouping. To attain a high-indicator value, they may be strongly dominant in a particular group or they may be just present consistently in low cover in a group. In general, species with low-indicator values are found commonly in multiple groups and are restricted to none. For the rapid assessment and accuracy assessment dataset, ISA was repeated at group levels 100 and 250. Group level 100 represents a more generalized view (e.g., indicating only 100 groupings for all of the samples) while group level 250 is a more detailed view of the way all samples are arranged into 250 clusters of related stands. These analyses were evaluated to the total number of significant indicator species (p-value ≤ 0.5) within each group level and the mean p-value for all species. The group level that had the highest number of significant indicators and lowest overall mean p-value was selected for the final evaluations of the community classification (McCune and Grace 2002). At this grouping level, plant community names within floristic classes were applied to the samples of the different groups. Naming conventions followed the floristic units of "associations," as defined by the National Vegetation Classification System (Grossman et al. 1998) and the California Native Plant Society (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995). An association is defined by a group of samples that have similar dominant and characteristic species in the overstory and other important and indicator species, whereby these species are distinctive for a particular environmental setting. Further, significant indicator species were drawn from the analysis and applied to the associations. A set of similar associations are grouped hierarchically to the next

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level in the classification, the alliance defined as the basic, generic unit of floristic classification, usually by the dominant and/or characteristic plant species in the upper layer of vegetation. For example, different types of coast live oak woodland are classified to the association level depending on the characteristic overstory and understory species (e.g., Coast live oak/Chamise as opposed to Coast live oak/Scrub oak), while there is a coast live oak alliance based on the characteristic presence of coast live oak in the overstory. The environmental field data collected on rapid assessment surveys is basic and tends to focus on general "hard" variables such as elevation, slope, aspect, soil texture, geology, and so forth (see the protocol in appendix 1). Associations are usually differentiated by environmental factors as well as floristic characteristics. In vegetation, the arrangement of certain groups of species defining a category of vegetation correlates with a particular set of ecological situations, which may include "hard" or specific climatic and other environmental differences related to temperature, moisture, or soil nutrition; however, it may also imply more vague ecological characteristics such as modes, frequency, and intensity of disturbance. The environmental field data collected on rapid assessment and releve surveys is basic and tends to focus on general "hard" variables such as elevation, slope, aspect, soil texture, geology, and so forth (see the protocols in appendix 1). As definitions were developed, the data analysis team used the correlates to ascertain environmental variables, or lack thereof, to help determine whether or not a particular cluster grouping should be ranked as an association. These environmental correlates were summarized following the species cluster analysis and are reported for each of the final definitions in this report. As many of the vegetation types defined in this report related to the "softer" variables that may be correlated with successional history following fire or other disturbance, it was difficult to draw specific, strong environmental correlations with many of the types. However, anecdotal comments in the descriptions focus on these when appropriate In cases where there was a group of vegetation samples that appeared somewhat floristically distinct but shared the same environmental characteristics with a larger group of samples, the term "phase" was used. A phase is an informal unit of classification that accommodates local floristic variation that tends to not have obvious correlations with certain environmental conditions, and it is best considered a part of a more definitive association. It probably results from very localized variation in the climate or site history, resulting from local relief, soil texture, geology, fire history, and so forth. Each sample was revisited within the context of the cluster to which it had been assigned to quantitatively define membership rules for each association. The

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

membership rules were defined by species constancy, indicator species, and species cover values. Upon revisiting each sample, a few samples were found to be misclassified in earlier fusions of the cluster analysis, and these samples were reclassified based on the membership rules. The set of data collected throughout the study area was used as the principal means for defining the association composition and membership rules; however, existing classifications and floras were consulted to locate analogous/similar classifications or descriptions of vegetation. A summary of the analysis process is provided in the following steps. 1. Screen all sample-by-species data for outliers. Samples (each releve or rapid assessment was considered a "sample") that were more than three standard deviations away from the mean were removed, and species that were in fewer than three samples were removed. 2. Run presence-absence cluster analysis to determine general arrangement of samples. 3. Run cover category cluster analysis to display a more specific arrangement of samples based on species presence and abundance. 4. Run Indicator Species Analysis at each of the successive group levels in the cluster analysis output from two groups up to the maximum number of groups (all groups have at least 2 samples). 5. Settle on the final representative grouping level of each cluster analysis to use in the preliminary labeling. 6. Preliminarily label alliance and association for each of the samples and denote indicator species from the Indicator Species Analysis. 7. Develop decision rules for each association and alliance based on most conservative group membership possibilities based on review of species cover on a sample-by-sample basis. 8. Relabel final alliance for each sample and arrange in table of database. 9. Use decision rules developed in the new data to assign alliance and association names to all analyzed data and all outlier samples removed from the dataset. Some rare vegetation types were underrepresented in the sampling effort. They were often the only representatives of rare alliances known from areas within the

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study boundaries, or they were the only representatives of alliances that occur in other areas beyond the study boundaries in California. In addition, it was not possible to survey the full spectrum of vegetation because the study area had mixed ownership and accessibility. For these reasons, adequate data may not be available in this report for all vegetation types. However, any relatively unique samples are considered important and are described separately in the results. In some cases, they represent unusual species groupings not described but were viewed as affording perspective into unusual vegetation types that deserve additional sampling. These types are either described at a more generic alliance/habitat level or as unique stands. Classification and Key The classification and key were produced to identify all vegetation types detected in the fieldwork for this project. They are based on the standard floristic hierarchy of the U.S. National Vegetation Classification as supported by NatureServe (see www.natureserve.org or NatureServe 2004). They are based on species composition, abundance, and habitat/environment. The key provides general choices and information on the physiognomy of the vegetation and the different environments based on wetland/upland position. This approach in the key was chosen to (1) reduce the length and redundancy that is common in dichotomous keys and (2) be a guide that can be easily used by nonbotanists/plant ecologists. The vegetation key can be used as a guide to the descriptions of vegetation within this report. It is written from two perspectives: (1) a field team attempting to identify vegetation and (2) an office team attempting to place field samples into the proper category. Thus, heavy reliance is placed on correct identification of characteristic plant species and of estimation of cover of these species. The key is first broken into major units based on dominant plant life-form: trees, shrubs, and herbs. Within these groups, the key is further divided by coniferous/ broadleaf evergreen, chaparral/soft-leaved shrubs, wetland/upland distinctions, graminoid/forb distinctions, and so forth. The key and descriptions hopefully will afford further refinement to the understanding of the Santa Monica Mountains area and surrounding regions from the standpoint of both classification and mapping. Philosophy of Vegetation Classification in This Report The developing philosophy of vegetation classification in California has benefited a large number of recent classification projects centered in southern coastal California (DeSimone and Burk 1992, Gordon and White 1994, White et al. 1994,

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Borchert et al. 2004, Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005). These, in conjunction with a growing understanding of statewide vegetation, have enabled the classification of the vegetation in the current project to proceed within a broader and better framework than would have been possible as little as five years ago. The natural development of most taxonomies, whether they be of species or vegetation, work their way through what can be called an expansive phase and then a synthetic phase. The first is characterized by the proliferation of many taxa based on local description without the benefit of broad comparison of related types. The second is based on a retrospective and broader view of more studies where related taxa can be compared and often shown to be related, thus ultimately synonymized. This latter phase has begun to take place in much of California, especially with the preparation of the second edition of the Manual of California Vegetation (Sawyer et al. 2006 MS). For example, chaparral alliances defined in previous studies included several mixed species types including Eriogonum fasciculatum-Encelia farinosa (Gordon and White 1994), Ceanothus megacarpus-Cercocarpus betuloides (Borchert et al. 2004), and Ceanothus megacarpus-Rhamnus ilicifolia (Borchert et al. 2004). These were named by the characteristic codominance of shrub species and were thought initially to represent fundamentally different entities than stands of vegetation dominated singly by individual species, for example, Encelia farinosa (without significant cover of Eriogonum fasciculatum) or Ceanothus megacarpus (without significant cover of Cercocarpus betuloides). However, now with a broader regional perspective, it is becoming clear that these entities are really more generally defined by the presence of a single characteristic species that may or may not have shared dominance with a less characteristic species. In the above examples, E. fasciculatum-E. farinosa has been subsumed under the E. farinosa Alliance, the C. megacarpus-C. betuloides Alliance has been subsumed under the C. megacarpus Alliance, and the Ceanothus megacarpusRhamnus ilicifolia Alliance has been subsumed under the C. megacarpus Alliance. There are various lines of reasoning used to make these decisions. However, central to most of them are a broader understanding of the geographic distribution and internal variation of each of the associations defined within these alliances. If a single mixed alliance has been named, it would have to have a broad regional distribution of the codominant species with further subregional variations of the associations to be substantiated as a codominant alliance. One example of this is the Artemisia californica–Eriogonum fasciculatum Alliance, which occurs from San Diego County and northwestern Baja, north to the Diablo Range of Alameda County in California.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

One of the great benefits of collecting so many samples of vegetation stands in this current project is that we can now see a more complete approximation in the range of cover of species and environmental conditions for each alliance and association. Thus, we have a better sense of where the important "breaks" in species composition are in these patterns. We can also compare similar vegetation samples from other similar areas away from the Santa Monica Mountains and determine if the characteristics are indeed different or the same. Using these kinds of comparisons for many parts of southern California, we have begun to synthesize some of the complicated patterns that were first described from earlier quantitative efforts and, in some cases, simplify them. Thus, although Salvia leucophylla forms single species dominant stands and codominant stands with Artemisia californica in the Santa Monica Mountains, we now believe that both of these situations can be encapsulated within the Salvia leucophylla Alliance, rather than establishing a separate alliance for the single dominant and codominant situations. This is a result of Salvia leucophylla being relatively geographically restricted, whereby it only dominates in the "Ventura" coastal scrub zone between Santa Barbara and Orange counties (Westman 1981 and Malanson 1984). When S. leucophylla makes up an important component of the shrub cover, whether it is the dominant species or is codominant with another species, it is sufficient to define the alliance. On the other hand, a mixed alliance such as Artemisia californica-Salvia mellifera has a much broader distribution up and down the California coast ranges and into Baja California. It occurs under different ecological conditions than either the single species alliances Salvia mellifera or Artemisia californica. For example, in the central coast ranges, there is an association of A. californica-S. mellifera defined by codominance of the two shrubs (Evens and San 2004). This same association is also defined for western Riverside County (Klein and Evens 2005) and Orange County (DeSimone and Burke 1992). The wide-ranging consistency of this vegetation is a strong factor in maintaining it as a separate entity from either the Artemisia californica or the Salvia mellifera Alliance. The philosophy of this report is consistent with others that have been written for other national parks in California. We require a relatively large number of samples to set high confidence for the existence of an association. In general, we have accepted n = 10 or more as a threshold for high confidence. Any less would set lower confidence, unless the same characteristics of species composition and environmental variables have been previously well-defined in studies elsewhere. Further revisions are bound to occur in the California state classification as more data is analyzed and compared. As a result of the relatively rigorous definitions at the association level upheld to begin with, it is likely that these modifications

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

will be made at the alliance level. The associations that are defined currently in this report are well substantiated by large sample sizes with consistent species compositions and relative cover values. The separation of associations into different alliances would only be reasonable if we saw major environmental differences in these alliances. Further revisions could also occur as datasets from different regions are analyzed together to identify and differentiate major environmental patterns of the alliances. One further refinement of classification rules realized in this project was the treatment of large "emergent" shrubs. In earlier efforts in the California deserts and desert transition areas (Keeler-Wolf et al. 1998 and Thomas et al. 2004), tall shrubs or "dwarf trees," such as Juniperus californica, Rhus ovata, Cercidium (Parkinsonia) florida, Olneya tesota, and others, were emphasized in numerical classification when they occurred in association with shorter-statured droughtdeciduous desert and semidesert shrubs such as Encelia farinosa, Salvia apiana, Viguiera parishii, and Eriogonum fasciculatum. Thus, despite a possible higher overall cover of individuals of the shorter drought-deciduous species, the larger, evenly spaced emergent species were found to "drive" the classification by their presence rather than by their total percent cover in a stand. This meant alliances and associations were often named by the larger, less dense emergent species. Structurally similar situations exist in the Santa Monica Mountains where Rhus ovata, and especially Malosma laurina occur at relatively low density and cover over a shorter, but higher cover layer of drought-deciduous shrubs such as Artemisia californica, Encelia californica, Salvia mellifera, S. leucophylla, Eriogonum cinereum, and E. fasciculatum. Thus, the initial classification developed for SAMO before extensive data analysis stressed the presence of such species as Malosma laurina, even if they occurred at much lower cover than the associated shorter drought-deciduous shrubs. This structural relationship was not borne out in the first phase of data analysis. Instead, it became clear that the presence of shrubs such as Malosma laurina was often ubiquitous, occurring in many situations that were better defined in many cases by the associated shorter-stature drought-deciduous shrubs. The concept of the Malosma laurina Alliance was thus refined to include only those stands where Malosma was dominant or codominant with other shrubs (regardless of their stature) in the stand. This is one of many cautionary tales revolving around vegetation classification assumptions based on extrapolating data from seemingly similar situations in different geographies and environments.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Description Writing Following the analysis of field data and development of the classification and key, association-level descriptions were written and based on field data and available literature. Scientific names of plants follow Hickman (1993) and UCB (2004). Common names follow these sources and USDA (2004). The primary compilers and developers of the data queries were Julie Evens and Anne Klein (California Native Plant Society) and Julie Christian (Santa Monica Mountains NRA). CNPS and TNC staff wrote local descriptions. Todd Keeler-Wolf (California Department of Fish and Game) wrote the keys, introductory material, and edited the description text. Todd Keeler-Wolf and Julie Evens wrote the descriptive sections on range and local and regional comments for descriptions. SAMO staff and Julie Evens edited the introduction, key, and final descriptions. The following definitions and conventions were used in developing the descriptions and the keys. 1. Cover: The primary metric used to quantify the importance/abundance of a particular species or a particular vegetation layer within a stand. It is measured by estimating the aerial extent of the living plants, or the bird'seye view looking from above, for each category. Cover in this and other California National Park Service vegetation classification and mapping projects uses the concept of "porosity" or foliar cover rather than "opacity" or crown cover. Thus, field crews are trained to estimate the amount of shade produced by the canopy of a plant or a stratum by taking into account the amount of shade it casts excluding the openings it may have in the interstitial spaces (e.g., between leaves or branches). This is assumed to provide a more realistic estimate of the actual amount of shade cast by the individual or stratum which, in turn, relates to the actual amount of light available to individual species or strata beneath it. 2. Relative cover: Refers to the amount of the surface of the plot or stand sampled that is covered by one species (or physiognomic group) as compared to (relative to) the amount of surface of the plot or stand covered by all species (in that group). Thus, 50 percent relative cover means that half of the total cover of all species or physiognomic groups is composed of the single species or group in question. Relative cover values are proportional numbers and, if added, total 100 percent for each stand (sample). 3. Absolute cover: Refers to the actual percentage of the ground (surface of the plot or stand) that is covered by a species or group of species. For example, Pinus sabiniana covers between 5 percent and 10 percent of the

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

stand. Absolute cover of all species or groups if added in a stand or plot may total greater or less than 100 percent because it is not a proportional number. 4. Dominant: Must be in at least 75 percent of the samples, with at least 50 percent relative cover in all samples. 5. Codominant: Must be in at least 75 percent of the samples, with at least 30 percent relative cover in all samples. 6. Consistent/Characteristic/Diagnostic species: Must be present in at least 75 percent of the samples, with no restriction on cover. 7. Abundant species: Must be present in at least 50 percent of the samples, with an average of at least 30 percent relative cover in all samples. 8. Frequently/Often/Usually occurring species: Must be present in at least 50 percent of the samples, with no restriction on cover. 9. Infrequently occurring: Present in less than 25 percent of the samples. 10. Sparse: Used to describe individual layers of vegetation (tree, shrub, herb, or subdivisions of them) where the cover is less than 8 percent absolute cover. 11. Open: Used to describe individual layers of vegetation (tree, shrub, herb, or subdivisions of them) where the cover is generally less than 33 percent absolute cover. 12. Intermittent: Used to describe individual layers of vegetation (tree, shrub, herb, or subdivisions of them) where there is 33–66 percent absolute cover. 13. Continuous: Used to describe individual layers of vegetation (tree, shrub, herb, or subdivisions of them) where there is greater than 66 percent absolute cover. 14. Emergent: A plant (or vegetation layer) is considered emergent if it includes a sparse cover of the plant, which rises above a predominant vegetation layer, and is considered a member of the next tallest layer but has an absolute cover < 10%. For example, individual Quercus agrifolia trees may comprise an emergent tree layer of 5 percent over a more

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

dense layer of Artemisia californica shrubs; the stand would be considered within the Artemisia californica Shrubland Alliance because the total tree cover is < 10% and the shrub cover is > 10%. Further, medium to tall shrubs are not considered emergent over shorter shrubs, but short trees are considered emergent over tall shrubs. 15. Stand: Is the basic physical unit of vegetation in a landscape. It has no set size. Some vegetation stands are very small such as wetland seeps, and some may be several square kilometers in size such as desert or forest types. A stand is defined by two main unifying characteristics: a. It has compositional integrity. Throughout the site, the combination of species is similar. The stand is differentiated from adjacent stands by a discernable boundary that may be abrupt or gradual. b. It has structural integrity. It has a similar history or environmental setting, affording relatively similar horizontal and vertical spacing of plant species. For example, a hillside forest formerly dominated by the same species but has burned on the upper part of the slope and not the lower is divided into two stands. Likewise, a sparse woodland occupying a slope with shallow rocky soils is considered a different stand from an adjacent slope of a denser woodland/forest with deep, more moist soil and the same species. 16. Woody plant: Is any species of plant that has noticeably woody stems. It does not include herbaceous species with woody underground portions such as tubers, roots, or rhizomes. 17. Tree: Is a one-stemmed woody plant that normally grows to be greater than 5 meters tall. In some cases, trees may be multiple stemmed following ramifying after fire or other disturbance, but the size of mature plants is typically greater than 5 meters. Undisturbed individuals of these species are usually single stemmed. 18. Shrub: Is normally a multistemmed woody plant that is usually between 0.2 meters and 5 meters tall. Definitions are blurred at the low and high ends of the height scales. At the tall end, shrubs may approach trees based on disturbance frequencies (e.g., old-growth resprouting chaparral species such as Cercocarpus betuloides, Fraxinus dipetala, Heteromeles arbutifolia, Prunus ilicifolia, and so forth, may frequently attain "tree size"). At the short end, woody perennial herbs or subshrubs of various species are often difficult to categorize into a consistent life-form.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

19. Herbaceous plant: Is any species of plant that has no main woody stem development and includes grasses, forbs, and dieback perennial species. 20. Forest: In the National Vegetation Classification, a forest is defined as a tree-dominated stand of vegetation with 60 percent or greater cover of trees. Most forest alliances tend to have average cover of trees > 60%, but individual stands under certain conditions may drop lower than 60 percent. This is reflective of the "modal" concept of the characteristics of a particular alliance. 21. Woodland: In the National Vegetation Classification, woodland is defined as a tree-dominated stand of vegetation with between 25 percent and 60 percent cover of trees. The same notion of "modality" that applies to forest types (#20) also applies here and to the sparsely wooded category (#22). 22. Sparsely wooded: These are stands with conspicuous trees (generally at least 10% absolute cover), but less than 25 percent cover may occur over shrubs as the dominant canopy (sparsely wooded shrubland) or herbaceous cover (sparsely wooded herbaceous). 23. Other Noteworthy Species: These are listed in the CNPS (2005) Online Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants and per SAMO (2004). Species were listed in descending order of occurrence within the vegetation type. 24. Distribution and Nonnative Species: Local ecological regions and nonnative species were listed in descending order of occurrence within the sample dataset for each vegetation type. 25. Conservation rank: Listed by the state NatureServe Heritage Programs. All communities were ranked, though ones without much information were ranked with a "?" after the rank to denote that this rank may change with more information but that the best knowledge to date (sometimes personal observation) was used. Otherwise, hard references were used to place rank. These ranks are the "Global" and "State" ranks as seen below. a. G1 and S1: Fewer than six viable occurrences worldwide and/or less than 2000 acres b. G2 and S2: 6–20 viable occurrences worldwide and/or 2,000–10,000 acres

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

c. G3 and S3: 21–100 viable occurrences worldwide and/or 10,000–50,000 acres d. G4 and S4: Greater than 100 viable occurrences worldwide and/or greater than 50,000 acres 26. Minimum sample size for classification and description: n = 3. Descriptions of associations with fewer than three samples were attempted if (a) the association was sampled and described by previous authors or (b) the vegetation was confirmed as distinctive and repeatable based on field reconnaissance or by photointerpretation signature. 27. Sample(s): Listed by their survey numbers from the vegetation databases and indicated using the following: rapid assessments begin with the alpha code "rap," and accuracy assessments begin with the alpha code AA (an abbreviation for accuracy assessment). Releve samples begin with the code "rap" followed by a numeric code and terminated with the alpha code "rlv." Successive numeric codes follow each of the alpha prefixes. 28. Con, Avg, Min, Max: A species table is provided at the end of each alliance or association description. The Con column provides the overall constancy value for each species within all rapid assessments and relevés classified as that vegetation type. The constancy values are between 0 and 100. Species that occurred with at least 20 percent constancy are listed in the table. The Avg column provides the average cover value for each species, as calculated across all samples in that vegetation type. The Min and Max values denote the minimum and maximum cover values of species listed in the table.

RESULTS The final agglomerative cluster analyses for the classification used data from 3,912 of 4,014 surveys sampled, and it included the 254 most abundant of 544 species sampled in the rapid and accuracy assessments. An example of the cluster analysis with the final sample assignments to association and phase is shown in figure 3, and the final classification is shown in table 1. In summary, 84 vegetation alliances or unique stands and 204 associations or phases were defined for the project. Of these, 177 types are fully described in this document as natural or seminatural vegetation units. These include associations, alliance-level units where insufficient sample size precluded further

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

analysis to the association level, and known or presumed rare stands that were not assigned to either associations or alliances (unique stands). Many association descriptions also contain brief descriptions of phases, which indicate further subassociation-level variation.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Survey # rap2456rlv rap2524rlv rap2525rlv rap2521rlv rap2522rlv rap2523rlv rap2892rlv rap2891rlv rap2893rlv rap2917rlv rap2790rlv rap2903rlv rap2520rlv rap2529rlv rap2849rlv rap2895rlv rap2527rlv rap2530rlv rap2528rlv rap2641rlv rap2469rlv rap2642rlv rap2864rlv rap2526rlv rap2915rlv rap2563rlv rap2872rlv rap2874rlv rap2535rlv rap2916rlv rap2536rlv rap2862rlv rap2532rlv rap2533rlv rap2534rlv rap2873rlv rap2913rlv rap2863rlv rap2897rlv rap2914rlv rap2457rlv rap2464rlv rap2458rlv rap2460rlv

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Alliance Platanus racemosa California Annual California Annual California Annual California Annual California Annual California Annual California Annual California Annual California Annual California Annual California Annual California Annual Lolium multiflorum Lolium multiflorum Phalaris aquatica Avena spp. Lolium multiflorum Avena spp. California Annual Eriogonum fasciculatum Eriogonum fasciculatum Eriogonum fasciculatum California Annual California Annual Leymus triticoides Hazardia squarrosa Hazardia squarrosa Euphorbia terracina California Annual Baccharis pilularis Baccharis pilularis Nassella pulchra Nassella pulchra Nassella pulchra Nassella pulchra Nassella pulchra Opuntia spp. Pennisetum setaceum Nassella pulchra Alnus rhombifolia Quercus agrifolia Platanus racemosa Quercus agrifolia

Diagram (clusters closest to left are ecologically more closely related) ----|-----| | ----| |-----------------| | ----------| | | ----|----------| |--------------| | |---| | | | | | |------------| | | | | |---| | || | | | | ||-------------| | | | -| | | | ----------------------|--------------------| |------| | ----------------------| | | | ------------|-------------------| | | | |-----| | | | |-----------| | | | | | | --------------------------------| |--------| | | ---|-------------| | | | | | ---| |--------------------| |----------------| | | | |----| | --------------------------|---------------------| | | | --------|-----------------| | | | | --------| | | | | -----|-----------------------| |-| | | | -----| |----------| | | | | | | | | | | | -------------------------|---| ------|------------------| |-------| | | | | ------| | | | | | | | | | | ----------------------------|-------| ----------------------------| |---| |---| | | | | | ------------|-----------------------| ------------| | | | | | | |-| | |------------------------| | | | --| |------| | | | ----|----------------------| | | | | ----| |---------------| | | ---|----------| | |---| | ---| |-------------------| --------------| | ---------|-------| | ---------| |------------| | -----------------| | | |--------| | ----------------|---|

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Survey # rap2462rlv rap2751rlv rap2555rlv rap2461rlv rap2557rlv rap2463rlv rap2852rlv rap2556rlv rap2851rlv rap2854rlv rap2682rlv rap2857rlv rap2752rlv rap2856rlv rap2855rlv rap2858rlv rap2870rlv rap2871rlv rap2890rlv

Alliance Quercus agrifolia Quercus agrifolia Quercus agrifolia Quercus agrifolia Quercus agrifolia Quercus agrifolia Quercus agrifolia Quercus agrifolia Quercus agrifolia Quercus agrifolia Platanus racemosa Salix laevigata-Salix Salix laevigata-Salix Salix laevigata-Salix Salix laevigata Rhus integrifolia Coreopsis gigantea Coreopsis gigantea MesembryanthemumCarpobrotus

Diagram (clusters closest to left are ecologically more closely related) ----------|-----| |---| | | | ----------| | |-----| | | --------------------| | |-----| | --------------|---------| | | | --------------| | | | -------|-----| | | | -------| |-------------------------| | | |-------| | |----------| | | |----| | | | --------| | | | --|---------------| | | | --| |---| | |--| ----------|-------| |----------------------| | ----------| | | ----------------------| | --------------------| | |--------| |-----------------------------------| | |----------| ---------|

Figure 3. This is an example of the cluster analysis dendrogram using Sorensen's distance measure and flexible beta linkage method, showing the relationship of individual samples and their final alliance names to the cluster breaks.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Table 1. National Vegetation Classification standard list of types identified in this study. Hierarchy levels increase in resolution from left to right with the finest level, the phase, on the right. Corresponding mapping code numbers are provided on the far right. Darkest color denotes class difference, slightly lighter shading denotes formation difference, and lightest shading denotes alliance differences. The information within the Class, Hierarchy code, and Alliance Code field columns is derived from NatureServe (2005). Class I. Forest

Hierarchy Code I.A.6.N.b

I.B.2.N.d

Formation Name

Alliance Code

Alliance

Association

A.84

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus Alliance

9510

A.87

Umbellularia californica

Umbellularia californica Alliance

1010

Umbellularia californica/Ceanothus oliganthus

1012

Umbellularia californica-Alnus rhombifolia

1013

Umbellularia californica-Juglans californica/Ceanothus spinosus

1011

Umbellularia californica-Platanus racemosa

1014

Alnus rhombifolia Alliance

1440

Alnus rhombifolia-Platanus racemosa

1441

Quercus agrifolia Alliance

1110

Quercus agrifolia

6122

Quercus agrifolia/Adenostoma fasciculatum

6115

Quercus agrifolia/Annual Grass-Herb

1111

Quercus agrifolia/Ceanothus spinosus

1118

Phase

Map Code

Lowland or submontane winter-rain evergreen sclerophyllous forest

Temporarily flooded cold-deciduous forest A.306

Alnus rhombifolia

II. Woodland II.A.5.N.a

Sclerophyllous extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland A.589

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Quercus agrifolia

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Class

Hierarchy Code

Formation Name

Alliance Code

Alliance

Association Quercus agrifolia/Quercus berberidifolia

Map Code 6112

Phase

Quercus agrifolia/Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica

1116

Quercus agrifolia/Toxicodendron diversilobum

1117 Quercus agrifolia/Toxicodendron diversilobum

1117

Quercus agrifolia/Mimulus aurantiacus

6113

Quercus agrifolia/Heteromeles arbutifolia Quercus agrifolia/Heteromeles arbutifolia Quercus agrifolia/Malosma laurina

6116

Juglans californica-Quercus agrifolia/Toxicodendron diversilobum

6311

Quercus agrifolia-Juglans californica

II.B.2.N.a

1115

Quercus agrifolia-Salix lasiolepis

6114

Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica

1114 Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica

1114

Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica/Toxicodendron diversilobum

6119

Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica/Ceanothus oliganthus

1119

Juglans californica Alliance

1310

Juglans californica/Annual Grass-Herb

1312

Juglans californica/Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus

1317

Cold-deciduous woodland A.607

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6117 6117

Juglans californica

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Class

Hierarchy Code

Formation Name

Alliance Code

A.618

II.B.2.N.b

Quercus lobata

Association Juglans californica/Ceanothus spinosus

Phase

Map Code 1315

Juglans californica/Heteromeles arbutifolia

6312

Juglans californica/Malosma laurina

1314

Quercus lobata Alliance

1320

Quercus lobata/Annual Grass-Herb

1321

Quercus lobata-Quercus agrifolia/Annual Grass-Herb

1323

Quercus lobata-Salix lasiolepis

1324

Platanus racemosa Alliance

1450

Platanus racemosa

6451

Platanus racemosa/Annual Grass-Herb

1456

Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia

1452

Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia/Baccharis salicifolia/Artemisia douglasiana

1458

Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia-Salix lasiolepis

6452

Temporarily flooded cold-deciduous woodland A.634

Platanus racemosa

A.639

Salix exigua

Salix exigua Alliance

3110

A.646

Salix laevigata

Salix laevigata Alliance

1420

none

Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis

Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis Alliance

1410

Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis/Artemisia douglasiana-Rubus ursinus/Annual Grass-Herb Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis/Baccharis salicifolia

1413

Salix lasiolepis Alliance

1430

Salix lasiolepis/Baccharis salicifolia

1432

A.977

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Alliance

Salix lasiolepis

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Hierarchy Code

Class

Formation Name

Alliance Code

Alliance

Association Salix lasiolepis/Malosma laurina

Map Code 1433

none

Schinus molle

Schinus molle Alliance

9550

none

Venegasia carpesioides

Venegasia carpesioides Alliance

4750

A.755

Adenostoma fasciculatum

Adenostoma fasciculatum Alliance

2010

Adenostoma fasciculatum

2011

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus megacarpus

2019

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Eriogonum fasciculatum

2017

Phase

III. Shrubland III.A.1.N.a.

Tropical or subtropical broad-leaved evergreen shrubland

III.A.2.N.a

Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland

III.A.2.N.c

Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland

Adenostoma fasciculatumEriogonum fasciculatum/Annual Grass-Herb Adenostoma fasciculatum-Lotus scoparius-Dendromecon rigida

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7012

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Malosma laurina

2013

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Malosma laurinaEriodictyon crassifolium/Annual Grass-Herb

7018

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Mimulus aurantiacus

7013

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia leucophylla

2018

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Class

Hierarchy Code

Formation Name

Alliance Code none none

none

Alliance Adenostoma fasciculatum-Quercus berberidifolia Adenostoma fasciculatumAdenostoma sparsifolium Adenostoma fasciculatumArctostaphylos glandulosa

Association Adenostoma fasciculatum-Quercus berberidifolia Association

Map Code 2581

Phase

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Adenostoma sparsifolium-Ceanothus crassifolius Association

2042

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glandulosa Association

2021

Adenostoma fasciculatumCeanothus megacarpusArctostaphylos glandulosa none

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glauca Association

2531

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus crassifolius-Malosma laurina Association

2572

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus cuneatus-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Association Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera/Grass-Herb Association

2511

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia melliferaMalosma laurina

2035

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia melliferaRhus ovata

2038

Adenostoma sparsifolium Alliance

2050

Arctostaphylos glandulosa Alliance

2550

A.759

Adenostoma sparsifolium Arctostaphylos glandulosa Arctostaphylos glauca

Arctostaphylos glauca Alliance

2540

A.764

Ceanothus crassifolius

Ceanothus crassifolius Alliance

2060

Ceanothus crassifolius

Ceanothus crassifolius

2063

Ceanothus crassifolius-Malosma laurina

2065

none

none none

A.756 A.757

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Adenostoma fasciculatumArctostaphylos glauca Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus crassifolius Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus cuneatus Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera

7017

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Class

Hierarchy Code

Formation Name

Alliance Code A.765

A.770

Alliance Ceanothus cuneatus

Ceanothus megacarpus

Association Ceanothus cuneatus Alliance

Map Code 2520

Phase

Ceanothus cuneatus-Quercus berberidifolia

2521

Ceanothus megacarpus Alliance

2080

Ceanothus megacarpus

2081

Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma fasciculatum

2083 Ceanothus megacarpusAdenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera

Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma sparsifolium

2082

Ceanothus megacarpus-Cercocarpus betuloides

2084 Ceanothus megacarpus-Quercus berberidifolia

Ceanothus megacarpus-Malosma laurina

A.771

none

C1188-1/c

Ceanothus oliganthus

Ceanothus spinosus

7083

2089 2087

Ceanothus megacarpus-Malosma laurina-Adenostoma fasciculatum Mixed Chaparral

7081

Ceanothus megacarpus-Malosma laurina-Salvia mellifera-Mixed Coastal Sage

2085

Ceanothus megacarpus-Salvia mellifera

7085

Ceanothus oliganthus Alliance

2070

Ceanothus oliganthus

2072

Ceanothus oliganthus-Adenostoma sparsifolium

2078

Ceanothus oliganthus-Heteromeles arbutifoliaRhus ovata

2076

Ceanothus oliganthus-Quercus berberidifolia

2077

Ceanothus spinosus Alliance

2090

40

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Class

Hierarchy Code

Formation Name

Alliance Code

A.896

Alliance

Cercocarpus betuloides

Association Ceanothus spinosus

Map Code 2092

Phase Ceanothus spinosus-Heteromeles arbutifolia-Prunus ilicifolia

2094

Ceanothus spinosus-Malosma laurina

2097

Ceanothus spinosus-Ceanothus megacarpus

2091

Cercocarpus betuloides Association

2114

Cercocarpus betuloides-Adenostoma fasciculatum

2115

Cercocarpus betuloides-Malosma laurinaArtemisia californica

2117 Cercocarpus betuloides-Artemisia californica/Melica imperfecta

2111

Cercocarpus betuloides-Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica

2117

Cercocarpus betuloides-Ceanothus spinosus

2113

none

Dendromecon rigida

Dendromecon rigida Alliance

3350

none

Heteromeles arbutifolia

Heteromeles arbutifolia Alliance

2130

Heteromeles arbutifolia-Malosma laurina

none

C1188-1/c

Malosma laurina

2138 Heteromeles arbutifolia-Artemisia californica-Mimulus aurantiacus

2135

Heteromeles arbutifolia-Malosma laurina

2138

Heteromeles arbutifoliaCercocarpus betuloides

2136

Heteromeles arbutifolia

2137

Heteromeles arbutifolia-Salvia mellifera-Rhus spp.

2133

Malosma laurina Alliance

2140

Malosma laurina

7142

41

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Class

Hierarchy Code

Formation Name

Alliance Code

Alliance

Association

Phase Malosma laurina/Annual GrassHerb

Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica

7148 Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica

7148

Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica-Salvia leucophylla

2142

Malosma laurina-Eriogonum cinereum

C1188-1/c

Map Code 2145

2141 Malosma laurina-Eriogonum cinereum

2141

Malosma laurina-Eriogonum cinereum-Lotus scoparius

7144

Malosma laurina-Eriogonum cinereum-Salvia mellifera

7141

Malosma laurina-Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Eriogonum cinereumSalvia mellifera

7146

Malosma laurina-Rhus integrifoliaEriogonum cinereum-Artemisia californica

21413

Malosma laurina-Rhus ovata-Ceanothus megacarpus

21415

Malosma laurina-Salvia mellifera

2148

Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum

21423

42

Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum

21423

Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum-Artemisia californica/Annual Grass-Herb

3382

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Class

Hierarchy Code

Formation Name

Alliance Code

Alliance

Association

A.2608

Prunus ilicifolia

Prunus ilicifolia-Heteromeles arbutifolia Association

2121

A.777

Quercus berberidifolia

Quercus berberidifolia Alliance

2160

Quercus berberidifolia

2161

Phase Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum-Heteromeles arbutifolia-Ceanothus megacarpus

Quercus berberidifolia

2161

Quercus berberidifoliaHeteromeles arbutifolia

2164

Quercus berberidifoliaAdenostoma fasciculatum

2163

Quercus berberidifolia-Ceanothus spinosus

2167

none

Quercus berberidifoliaCercocarpus betuloides

Quercus berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides Association

2591

A.786

Quercus wislizeni var. frutescens

Quercus wislizeni var. frutescens Alliance

2560

none

Rhus integrifolia

Rhus integrifolia Alliance Rhus integrifolia

2150 2153 Rhus integrifolia

2153

Rhus integrifolia-Heteromeles arbutifolia

2158

Rhus integrifolia-Malacothamnus fasciculatus

7153

Rhus integrifolia-Artemisia californicaEriogonum cinereum

Rhus integrifolia-Opuntia spp.-Eriogonum cinereum

C1188-1/c

Map Code 3383

43

7157 Rhus integrifolia-Artemisia californica-Salvia leucophylla

2155

Rhus integrifolia-Eriogonum cinereum-Yucca whippleiCoreopsis gigantea

7155

2151

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Class

Hierarchy Code

III.A.4.N.a

Formation Name

Alliance Code none

Alliance Rhus ovata

Association Rhus ovata Association

Map Code 2193

Phase

Rhus ovata-Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica

2192

2310

Lowland microphyllous evergreen shrubland A.836

Baccharis pilularis

Baccharis pilularis Alliance Baccharis pilularis/Annual Grass-Herb

2311

none

Baccharis pilularisArtemisia californica

Baccharis pilularis-Artemisia californica Alliance

2310

Baccharis pilularis-Artemisia californica

2313

none

Hazardia squarrosa

Baccharis pilularis-Artemisia californica-Salvia leucophylla

2315

Baccharis pilularis-Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica

2314

Hazardia squarrosa Alliance Hazardia squarrosa-Artemisia californica

3260 3262 Hazardia squarrosa/Annual GrassHerb

3261

Hazardia squarrosa-Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus

3262

Hazardia squarrosa/Nassella pulchraHemizonia fasciculata

3263 Hazardia squarrosa/Nassella pulchra-Hemizonia fasciculata

III.A.4.N.b

III.A.5.N.b

C1188-1/c

3263

none

Spartium junceum

Spartium junceum Alliance

9542

A.838

Lepidospartum squamatum

Lepidospartum squamatum Alliance

2220

Intermittently flooded microphyllous shrubland

Facultatively deciduous extremely xeromorphic subdesert shrubland

44

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Class

Hierarchy Code

Formation Name

Alliance Code A.815

Alliance Artemisia californica

Association Artemisia californica Association

Map Code 8213

Phase Artemisia californica/Annual Grass-Herb

8213

Artemisia californica-Salvia leucophylla

3211

Artemisia californica-Malosma laurina

3219

Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus

3216

Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum

3214 Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum-Mimulus aurantiacus/Melica imperfecta

none

Artemisia californicaEriogonum fasciculatum

Artemisia californica-Mimulus aurantiacus

8214

Artemisia californica-Eriogonum fasciculatum/Annual Grass-Herb Association

3371

Artemisia californica-Eriogonum fasciculatumSalvia leucophylla

3372

Artemisia californica-Eriogonum fasciculatumSalvia mellifera

3373 2330

none

Atriplex lentiformis

Atriplex lentiformis Alliance

A.772

Encelia californica

Encelia californica

3222 Encelia californica-Eriogonum fasciculatum

none

C1188-1/c

Eriogonum cinereum

3218

3224

Encelia californica-Artemisia californica

3227

Encelia californica-Eriogonum cinereum

3225

Encelia californica-Malosma laurina-Salvia mellifera

3221

Encelia californica-Rhus integrifolia

3226

Eriogonum cinereum

3257

45

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Class

Hierarchy Code

Formation Name

Alliance Code

Alliance

Association

A.868

Eriogonum fasciculatum

Eriogonum fasciculatum Association

A.773 none

A.748 none

none

C1188-1/c

Eriogonum fasciculatumSalvia apiana Mimulus aurantiacus

Salvia leucophylla

Phase Eriogonum cinereumMalacothamnus fasciculatus/Leymus condensatus

Map Code 3259 3241

Eriogonum fasciculatum-Lotus scoparius

3249

Eriogonum fasciculatum

3241

Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia melliferaMalosma laurina

3248

Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia apiana Alliance

3410

Mimulus aurantiacus-Malosma laurina Association

2172 Mimulus aurantiacus-Malosma laurina

2172

Mimulus aurantiacus-Salvia leucophylla

2171

Salvia leucophylla Alliance

3390

Salvia leucophylla Association

Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica Association

46

3316 Salvia leucophylla

3316

Salvia leucophylla/Leymus condensatus

3319

Salvia leucophylla/Nassella spp.

3311

Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica-Malacothamnus fasciculatus

8311

Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus

3391 3393

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Class

Hierarchy Code

Formation Name

Alliance Code

Alliance

Association Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californicaEriogonum cinereum/Nassella

Phase Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum/Nassella Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica-Malosma laurina/Nassella

3395

Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica-Mimulus aurantiacus

3392

Salvia leucophylla-Eriogonum cinereum/Annual Grass-Herb A.749

Salvia mellifera

Salvia melliferaArtemisia californica

3312

Salvia mellifera Alliance

3320 Salvia mellifera

3324

Salvia mellifera-Adenostoma fasciculatum

3329

Salvia mellifera-Eriogonum fasciculatum

3321

Salvia mellifera-Malacothamnus fasciculatus

3322

Salvia mellifera-Artemisia californica

3421 Salvia mellifera-Artemisia californica-Salvia leucophylla

III.A.5.N.c

8323

Salvia mellifera-Eriogonum cinereum

3323

Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina

8324 Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina

8324

Salvia mellifera-Artemisia californica-Rhus integrifolia

8322

Salvia mellifera-Rhus ovata

8325

Opuntia spp.-Mixed Coastal Sage Scrub Association

2412

Succulent extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland none

C1188-1/c

Map Code 3396

Opuntia spp.

47

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Class

Hierarchy Code III.B.1.N.a

Formation Name Lowland droughtdeciduous shrubland

Alliance Code

Alliance

Association

none

Coreopsis gigantea

Coreopsis gigantea-Artemisia californicaEriogonum cinereum Association

3345

Coreopsis gigantea-Ericameria ericoidesEncelia californica

3342

Malacothamnus fasciculatus Association

3287

Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Ceanothus spinosus

3289

Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Ceanothus megacarpus

3288

Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Malosma laurina

3286

Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Salvia leucophylla

3281

Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Salvia mellifera

3282

none

III.B.2.N.c

Intermittently flooded cold-deciduous shrubland

III.B.2.N.c

Intermittently flooded cold-deciduous shrubland

C1188-1/c

Map Code

Intermittently flooded cold-deciduous shrubland

III.B.2.N.c

III.C.2.N.a

Malacothamnus fasciculatus

Phase

A.933

Baccharis salicifolia

Baccharis salicifolia-Riparian Association

2212

none

Rosa californica

Rosa californica Alliance

3010

A.935

Sambucus mexicana

Sambucus mexicana/Leymus condensatusAnnual Grass-Herb Association

3021

Sambucus mexicana-Heteromeles arbutifolia/Annual Grass-Herb

3022

Mixed evergreen colddeciduous shrubland

48

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Hierarchy Code

Class

Formation Name

Alliance Code A.2610

Alliance Toxicodendron diversilobum

Association Toxicodendron diversilobum-Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus Association

Map Code 3331

Phase

Toxicodendron diversilobum-Mimulus aurantiacus

3332

IV. Dwarf Shrubland IV.A.2.N.b

Facultatively deciduous subdesert dwarfshrubland none

V. Herbaceous Vegetation V.A.5.N.a

V.A.5.N.d

C1188-1/c

Lotus scoparius Alliance

3270 Lotus scoparius-Artemisia californica/Annual Grass-Herb

3273

Lotus scoparius-Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera

3272

Tall sod temperate grassland none

Leymus condensatus

Leymus condensatus Association

4041

A.1248

Nassella lepida

Nassella lepida Alliance

4090

A.1289

Nassella pulchra

Nassella Alliance

4020

A.1289

Nassella pulchra

Nassella pulchra-Hazardia squarrosa

4021

none

Pennisetum setaceum

Pennisetum setaceum Alliance

4060

Pennisetum setaceum-Coreopsis giganteaYucca whipplei-Malosma laurina

4061

Phalaris aquatica Alliance

4070

Medium-tall bunch temperate or subpolar grassland

none V.A.5.N.i

Lotus scoparius

Phalaris aquatica

Intermittently flooded temperate or subpolar grassland

49

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Class

Hierarchy Code

Formation Name

Alliance Code A.1332

Alliance Distichlis spicata

Association Distichlis spicata-Ambrosia chamissonis Association

Map Code 4511

Phase

Distichlis spicata-Salicornia virginica-Jaumea carnosa

4527 Distichlis spicata-Salicornia virginica-Jaumea carnosa Distichlis spicata-Jaumea carnosa

V.A.5.N.j

Seasonally flooded temperate or subpolar grassland

V.A.5.N.l

Semipermanently flooded temperate or subpolar grassland

V.B.2.N.

V.B.2.N.b

C1188-1/c

4514

Temporarily flooded temperate or subpolar grassland

V.A.5.N.k

V.B.2.N.a

4527

A.1339

Arundo donax

Arundo donax Alliance

4310

A.1353

Leymus triticoides

Leymus triticoides Alliance

4030

none

Juncus effusus

Juncus effusus Alliance

4330

A.1171

Scirpus californicus

Scirpus californicus Alliance

4410

A.1394

Typha sp.

Typha sp. Alliance

4420

none

Foeniculum vulgare

Foeniculum vulgare Alliance

4760

none

Euphorbia terracina

Euphorbia terracina Stands

4771

none

Lepidium latifolium

Lepidium latifolium Alliance

4780

Tall temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation

Intermittently flooded perennial herbaceous vegetation Creeping or matted colddeciduous dwarfshrubland

50

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Class

Hierarchy Code

V.B.2.N.b

V.B.2.N.g.

V.D.2.N.

Formation Name

Alliance Code A.1620

Association Carpobrotus edulis Association

none

Selaginella bigelovii

Selaginella bigelovii/Eriogonum fasciculatum Association

4811

none

Frankenia salina

4551

A.2618

Salicornia virginica

Frankenia salina-Limonium californicumMonanthochloe littoralis-Salicornia spp. Association Salicornia virginica/Algae Association Salicornia virginica-Brassica nigra

4529

Salicornia virginica-Frankenia salina

4524

Salicornia virginica-Frankenia salina-Batis maritima Dry

4526

Salicornia virginica-Jaumea carnosa

4527

Salicornia virginica-Salicornia subterminalis

4525

Salicornia virginica-Suaeda taxifolia

45201

Low temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation Tidal temperate perennial forb vegetation

4528

Medium-tall temperate annual grassland none

C1188-1/c

Phase

Map Code 4720

Alliance Mesembryanthemum spp.-Carpobrotus spp. Seminatural Herbaceous Alliance

California Annual Grassland/Herbaceous Alliance

5000 Brassica nigra

5000

Brassica nigra-Bromus diandrus

5000

Brassica nigra-Centaurea melitensis

5000

Bromus diandrus

5000

Bromus diandrus-Avena spp.

5000

51

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Class

Hierarchy Code

Formation Name

Alliance Code

Alliance

Association Avena fatua Association (and Avena spp. Alliance) Lolium multiflorum Association and Alliance

C1188-1/c

52

Phase

Map Code 5000 (4220) 5000 (4210)

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

KEY The key for distinguishing vegetation types (table 2) is not strictly dichotomous. Because of the diversity of vegetation in the mapping area and to avoid an excessively long document, a series of paired statements (or couplets) was not developed for each option. Instead, sets of characteristics with choices beneath them are provided. The key will first lead the user to the general options, and the individual selections for the vegetation associations will be listed beneath these options. Simply work through the numbered list of types from the more general to the most specific options until the best fit is reached. The choices are identified by a combination of alphanumeric codes, using capital letters, numerals, upper- and lowercase letters, and decimal points to distinguish the different key levels. The most basic, general levels in the key are on the left side of the alphanumeric code, and the most specific are on the right side. This coding system in the key relates to a series of left indentations. Thus, down the left-hand side of the pages are the major groupings; nested within them are the subgroupings. Phases, if present, are listed directly below the association in the key with a brief description. Mapping units (defined as an informal, visually distinct structural assemblage of plants that does not correlate directly with a floristically defined alliance, association, or phase used by the photointerpreters), are also defined where appropriate herein. The preliminary key will direct you to the major groups, such as forest/woodland, shrubland, and herbaceous, with the more specific choices beneath them. The more specific lists within these are generally based on presence/absence or dominance/subordinance of species until arriving at the optimum choice. Please note: Since there may be more than two alternatives in a group, be sure to work through all of the options in a list before you decide what is the best choice.

C1188-1/c

53

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Table 2: Field key to the defined vegetation associations of the Santa Monica Mountains and Simi Hills area, Ventura and Los Angeles counties, California. Class A. Vegetation with an overstory of trees (at least 5 m tall). Absolute tree canopy cover is generally >10% but occasionally may be < 10% over a denser understory of shrub and/or herbaceous species. If the latter, trees are evenly distributed across the stand and are ecologically significant members of the stand (stand is thus "characterized" by trees, even if not "dominated" by them). = Tree-Overstory Vegetation Class B. Vegetation characterized by woody shrubs in the canopy. Tree species, if present, generally total < 10% absolute cover. Herbaceous species may total higher cover than shrubs. Shrubs are usually at least 10% cover. = Shrub-Overstory Vegetation Class C. Vegetation characterized by nonwoody, herbaceous species in the canopy including grass, graminoid, and broad-leaved herbaceous species. Shrubs, if present, usually comprise < 10% absolute cover. Trees, if present, generally compose < 5% absolute cover. = Herbaceous Vegetation Class A. Tree-Overstory Vegetation Group I: Woodlands and forests characterized by needle or scale-leaved conifer trees including pine (Pinus). The conifers may only occur intermittently in the overstory and may be associated with tree oaks or shrubs. I.A. The overstory is dominated by pine (Pinus) or other coniferous trees (none native to the mapping area) alone or in shared dominance with broadleaf evergreen trees or shrubs. I.A.1. Introduced pine (Pinus sp.) or other conifers occur as the dominant tree or co-occurs with other tree species in an open overstory, associated with roadsides and human habitation. (Note: This is not a vegetation type since all occurrences are plantations.) Pinus mapping unit (9520) Group II. Woodlands and forests characterized mainly by broad-leaved evergreen and deciduous tree species such as oaks (Quercus), willows (Salix), bay (Umbellularia californica), California walnut (Juglans californica), and California sycamore (Platanus racemosa).

C1188-1/c

54

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

II.A. California sycamore is the sole dominant tree in the canopy or shares dominance with coast live oak or willows, which may be in the canopy or subcanopy. Platanus racemosa Alliance (1450) II.A.1. California sycamore is the sole dominant tree over either a sparse understory of shrubs and herbs or dense annual grasses and herbs. II.A.1.a. California sycamore is the sole dominant tree with no characteristic species in either the canopy or understory. Platanus racemosa South Coast Intermittent Stream Association (6451) II.A.1.b. California sycamore is the sole dominant tree in the overstory. The understory has a significant mixed cover of grasses, herbs, and shrubs. Platanus racemosa/Annual Grass-Herb Association (1456) II.A.2. Coast live oak usually shares dominance with California sycamore in the overstory (they either may be codominant or dominant). Arroyo willow may be present. II.A.2.a California sycamore and coast live oak occur in the canopy with no significant cover of any other large riparian trees or shrubs. Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia South Coast Association (1452) II.A.2.b. Coast live oak usually shares dominance with California sycamore in the overstory. In the understory, arroyo willow occurs with mule fat (Baccharis salicifolia) and other species. Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia-Salix lasiolepis Association (6452) II.A.2.c. Coast live oak usually shares dominance with California sycamore in the overstory. In the understory, mule fat (Baccharis salicifolia) dominates, and mugwort (Artemisia douglasiana) is usually present. Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia/Baccharis salicifolia/ Artemisia douglasiana South Coast Association (1458) II.B. California walnut (Juglans californica) provides an open to intermittent tree overstory canopy (in some cases it may be a large shrub). It may co-occur and codominate with coast live oak. Shrubs of either chaparral (Ceanothus sp.,

C1188-1/c

55

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Heteromeles arbutifolia, etc.) or coastal sage scrub (Artemisia californica, Salvia leucophylla) as well as annual or perennial grasses may occur in the understory. Juglans californica Alliance (1310) II.B.1. California walnut is the sole dominant tree (or large shrub) in the overstory. Shrubs are sparse to open, while annual grasses and herbs are abundant in the understory. Juglans californica/Annual Grass-Herb Association (1312) II.B.2. California walnut is dominant in the tree overstory, and stands contain significant and obvious shrubs of either chaparral or coastal scrub affinities (Ceanothus spinosus, Malosma laurina, Heteromeles arbutifolia, Artemisia californica, Salvia leucophylla) in the understory subcanopy. II.B.2.a. California walnut is the sole dominant tree (or occasionally, large shrub) and greenbark ceanothus is strongly dominant in the shrub layer. Juglans californica/Ceanothus spinosus Association (1315) II.B.2.b. Laurel sumac is dominant in the shrub understory, although a number of other shrubs (some often early seral such as Malacothamnus fasciculatus) may be present at low cover. Juglans californica/Malosma laurina Association (1314) II.B.2.c. California sagebrush is codominant to dominant often with purple sage in the shrub understory. Giant wild rye is usually present in significant cover in the herb layer. California walnut is dominant in the overstory. Juglans californica/Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus Association (1317) II.B.2.d. Toyon is the dominant shrub in the understory with coast live oak present but always subdominant to California walnut in the tree layer. Sugar bush and several other typically chaparral shrubs are usually present along with toyon in the shrub layer. Juglans californica/Heteromeles arbutifolia Association (6312) II.B.3. California walnut is subdominant to codominant with coast live oak in the overstory, and the understory may be open and grassy or may have shrub layer with poison oak. Quercus agrifolia-Juglans californica Association (1115)

C1188-1/c

56

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Note: Two phases of this association occur: One in which the shrub layer is low in cover (trace cover of poison oak) while the herbaceous layer is usually moderately to highly developed, and another in which the shrub layer has moderate to high cover of poison oak and other shrub species such as toyon and elderberry. Quercus agrifolia-Juglans californica Phase (1115) Juglans californica-Quercus agrifolia/Toxicodendron diversilobum Phase (6311)

II.C. Oaks (either valley oak or coast live oak) are the dominant trees in the overstory. II.C.1. Valley oak is the dominant or conspicuous tree occurring as a sole dominant or as codominant with coast live oak and/or arroyo willow. Quercus lobata Alliance (1320) II.C.1.a. Valley oak occurs in nonriparian settings over an understory with sparse shrubs and characterized by annual grasses and herbs, with or without coast live oak. II.C.1.a.i. Valley oak is the sole dominant tree over annual grasses and herbs. Coast live oak and/or walnut may be present but in total never more than half the cover of valley oak. Quercus lobata/Annual Grass-Herb Association (1321) II.C.1.a.ii. Valley oak occurs with coast live oak as a codominant or subdominant in the tree layer over annual grasses and herbs. Quercus lobata-Quercus agrifolia/Annual Grass-Herb Association (1323) II.C.1.b. Valley oak occurs with shrubby or tree-sized arroyo willow in riparian settings. Quercus lobata-Salix lasiolepis Association (1324) II.C.2. Coast live oak occurs as the dominant tree in the canopy, while California sycamore and/or California bay may be subdominant to codominant. Quercus agrifolia Alliance (1110) II.C.2.a. Willows (Salix lasiolepis primarily) are subdominant trees with coast live oak in riparian or ravine settings.

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III.C.2.a.i. Arroyo willow and/or red willow are subdominant overstory or understory trees with coast live oak. Riparian shrubs and herbs may also be present, including mule fat, mugwort, and rorippa. Quercus agrifolia-Salix lasiolepis Association (6114) II.C.2.b. Coast live oak is usually the sole dominant tree species in the overstory in upland (usually nonriparian) settings over a variety of understory layers from grassy to scrubby. II.C.2.b.i. While the overstory is dominated solely by coast live oak, the understory is sparse to low in cover and may have occasional shrubs or herbs. Quercus agrifolia South Coastal Association (6122) II.C.2.b.ii. While the overstory is dominated solely by coast live oak, the understory is primarily dominated by annual grasses and herbs. Quercus agrifolia/Annual Grass-Herb Association (1111) II.C.2.b.iii. While the overstory is dominated solely by coast live oak, the understory is primarily dominated by poison oak and/or bush monkey flower in one layer and annual grasses and herbs in another layer, though the shrub layer usually has higher understory cover. Quercus agrifolia/Toxicodendron diversilobum Association (1117) Note: This association includes the following phase, which may contain poison oak at sparse to moderate cover but also has bush monkey flower at moderate to high cover. Quercus agrifolia/Mimulus aurantiacus Phase (6113)

II.C.2.b.iv. While the overstory is dominated solely by coast live oak, the understory is primarily dominated by toyon. Laurel sumac may be present. If poison oak is present, cover is less than toyon. Quercus agrifolia/Heteromeles arbutifolia Association (6117) Note: This association includes the following phase, which contains toyon and laurel sumac at moderate cover. Quercus agrifolia/Malosma laurina Phase (6116)

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II.C.2.b.v. Chamise occurs as an open to dense understory under an open canopy of coast live oak. Quercus agrifolia/Adenostoma fasciculatum Association (6115) II.C.2.b.vi. Greenbark ceanothus occurs as a tall understory shrub associated with an open to intermittent canopy of coast live oak. Quercus agrifolia/Ceanothus spinosus Association (1118) II.C.2.b.vii. Scrub oak occurs as the principal understory shrub in an open to intermittent overstory of coast live oak. Quercus agrifolia/Quercus berberidifolia Association (6112) II.C.2.b.viii. Both purple sage and California sagebrush occur as understory shrubs to an open to intermittent canopy of coast live oak. Quercus agrifolia/Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica Association (1116) II.C.2.c. California bay is subdominant to codominant with coast live oak in the overstory. The understory may be open and grassy or may include a moderate to high cover of shrub cover. II.C.2.c.i. Hairy leaf ceanothus occurs as a tall understory shrub associated with an open to intermittent canopy of coast live oak and frequently California bay. If poison oak is present, it is trace in cover. Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica/Ceanothus oliganthus Association (1119) II.C.2.c.ii. The understory is usually open, though shrubs such as poison oak, toyon, and greenbark ceanothus may also be present at low to moderate cover. Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica Association (1114) Note: This association includes the following two phases: One contains poison oak at moderate cover but may also have other shrub species at low to moderate cover, and the other contains no poison oak. Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica/Toxicodendron diversilobum Phase (6119) Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica Phase (1114)

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II.D. One or more willow species are the primary tree(s) in the riparian overstory. (Note: Although some willows may be considered shrubs in this area, most are tall enough to be identified as tree willows, and there is no separation of tree and shrub willow categories in this key.) II.D.1. Arroyo willow (S. lasiolepis) is the dominant tree in the canopy or is codominant with red willow (Salix laevigata) in the canopy. II.D.1.a. Red willow occurs with arroyo willow as a sub- or codominant in the overstory. II.D.1.a.i. California blackberry and mugwort (Artemisia douglasiana) are usually present in the understory with a variety of other herbs and shrubs. Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis/Artemisia douglasianaRubus ursinus/Annual Grass-Herb Association (1413) II.D.1.a.ii. Red willow and arroyo willow are co- or subdominant, but stands lack California blackberry and/or mugwort. Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis Association (1410) II.D.1.a.iii. Red willow and arroyo willow both occur in the tree or tall shrub layer with mule fat as the characteristic shorter shrub. Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis/Baccharis salicifolia Association (1412/1432) II.D.2. Riparian shrublands or woodlands in which arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis) is dominant. An emergent and sparse tree layer may also be present. Salix lasiolepis Alliance (1430) II.D.2.a. Laurel sumac is a common and characteristic shrub associating with the overstory-dominant arroyo willow, occasionally seen on seeps and bluffs along the immediate coast. Salix lasiolepis/Malosma laurina Association (1433) II.D.2.b. Mule fat is a characteristic subdominant or codominant with arroyo willow. Salix lasiolepis/Baccharis salicifolia Association (1414)

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II.D.3. The overstory is dominated by the clonal shrubby to short treesized narrow-leaved willow. Stands are uncommon and usually small in the study area. Salix exigua Alliance (3110) II.D.4. Red willow is the sole dominant. Salix laevigata Alliance (1420) II.E. White alder (Alnus rhombifolia) is the dominant or, most commonly, it shares dominance with other trees. It is usually restricted to permanently flowing streams close to the coast. Alnus rhombifolia Alliance (1440) II.E.1. White alder is codominant to subdominant with California sycamore. Alnus rhombifolia-Platanus racemosa Association (1441) II.F. A species of Eucalyptus dominates in the tree/shrub canopy, though there may be a minor presence of native trees/shrubs. Most stands are planted and noninvasive in this study area. Eucalyptus Alliance (9510) II.G. California bay occurs as a tree or tall shrub usually dominant or codominant with coast live oak, California walnut, California sycamore, white alder, or taller mesic chaparral shrubs such as greenbark or hairy leaf ceanothus (Ceanothus spinosus or C. oliganthus). Umbellularia californica Alliance (1010) II.G.1. California bay dominates or codominates in upland settings and not usually adjacent to streams or bottomlands. II.G.1.a. California bay is either a shrub or a tree of rocky upland settings associated with hairy leaf ceanothus and usually associated with coast live oak in lower cover. Umbellularia californica/Ceanothus oliganthus Association (1012) II.G.2. California bay occurs in stands in convex upper slopes and ravines or in true riparian settings adjacent to streams and associated with California walnut, California sycamore, or white alder.

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II.G.2.a. California bay occurs along perennial streams with white alder, rare and local in the Santa Monica Mountains. Umbellularia californica-Alnus rhombifolia Association (1013) II.G.2.b. California bay occurs along streams or in ravines with codominance to a low cover presence of California sycamore. Umbellularia californica-Platanus racemosa Association (1014) II.G.2.c. California bay occurs with California walnut as a frequent subdominant and greenbark ceanothus as the principal understory shrub, usually in ravines and concavities on slopes. Umbellularia californica-Juglans californica/Ceanothus spinosus Association (1011) II.H. Interior live oak occurs as a dominant or codominant in the tree/shrub overstory. Quercus wislizeni Alliance (2560) Note: In this study the few known stands of Quercus wislizeni Alliance appear to be dominated by shrubby individuals and have been placed in the Shrub-Overstory Vegetation section of this classification. For thoroughness and assuming that there may be some stands that reach near tree-size, they may be keyed here or in the shrub key that follows. Class B. Shrub-Overstory Vegetation Group I: Shrublands are dominated by sclerophyllous temperate broadleaved shrubs (with leaves hardened by a waxy cuticle). They are dominated by typical chaparral shrub genera including chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum), manzanita (Arctostaphylos), Ceanothus, mountain mahogany (Cercocarpus), scrub oaks (Quercus), coffeeberry (Rhamnus), and so forth. This group also includes vegetation dominated or codominated by large broad-leaved evergreen species such as Malosma laurina and Rhus spp., which may be associated with shorter nonsclerophyll shrubs. I.A. A postfire transition scrub dominated by bush poppy (Dendromecon rigida), usually with chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum) or other chaparral shrubs present. Note: Bush poppy is considered by some as a drought-deciduous species and may also be keyed in Group II of this shrub key. Dendromecon rigida Alliance, Dendromecon rigida Association (3350)

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I.B. The shrubland overstory is dominated primarily by one species of shrub oak (Quercus) or has shared dominance with other chaparral shrub species such as chamise. I.B.1. Scrub oak (Quercus berberidifolia) usually occurs as a dominant or, if it codominates, it is not codominant with chamise nor birch leaf mountain mahogany. Quercus berberidifolia Alliance (2160) I.B.1.a. Scrub oak occurs as the sole dominant in the shrub layer. Other shrubs may occur as subdominants. Quercus berberidifolia Association (2161) Note: This association is complex including two phases with a small but constant cover of either chamise or toyon. Quercus berberidifolia-Heteromeles arbutifolia Phase (2164) Quercus berberidifolia-Adenostoma fasciculatum Phase (2163)

I.B.1.b. Greenbark ceanothus (C. spinosus) characteristically occurs as a subdominant or codominant with scrub oak. Quercus berberidifolia-Ceanothus spinosus Association (2167) I.B.2. Scrub oak codominates with chamise (chamise and scrub oak each > 15% relative cover in the shrub layer), other shrubs in the stands are significantly less cover. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Quercus berberidifolia Alliance (2580) Adenostoma fasciculatum-Quercus berberidifolia Association (2581) I.B.3. Scrub oak (Quercus berberidifolia) usually occurs as a codominant or subdominant with birch leaf mountain mahogany (typically both with 10% cover). Quercus berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides Alliance (2590) Quercus berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides Association (2591) I.B.4. The overstory is dominated by interior live oak. Stands are uncommon and small and are at the upper elevations of the Santa Monica Mountains, usually in rocky settings. Quercus wislizeni var. frutescens Alliance (2560) I.C. The overstory is dominated by lemonade berry (Rhus integrifolia), holly leaf cherry (Prunus ilicifolia), sugar bush (Rhus ovata), or toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia), and the shrubs may have shared dominance with other evergreen, coastal scrub, or succulent shrubs.

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I.C.1. Lemonade berry occurs as the dominant shrub in an open to intermittent overstory while other shrubs (mostly nonchaparral coastal scrub species) may be present at low cover. Rhus integrifolia Alliance (2150) I.C.1.a. Lemonade berry strongly dominates the shrub layer, though the shrub layer is typically open to intermittent in cover. Rhus integrifolia Association (2153) Note: This is a complex association including four phases: one with a constant low cover of toyon; one with nearly pure shrub cover of lemonade berry; one with a postfire phase with a constant low cover of bush mallow; and one with a cover of laurel sumac and sagebrush. Rhus integrifolia-Heteromeles arbutifolia Phase (2158) Rhus integrifolia Phase (2153) Rhus integrifolia-Malacothamnus fasciculatus Phase (7153) Rhus integrifolia-Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica Phase (7156)

I.C.1.b. Lemonade berry is conspicuous in the shrub layer but regularly has smaller, usually drought-deciduous coastal scrub shrubs associating with it. I.C.1.b.i. California sagebrush and/or ashy buckwheat are subdominants and may occur in equal to higher cover (in total) to lemonade berry. Rhus integrifolia-Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Association (7157) Note: This is a complex association including three phases that contain lemonade berry mixed with drought deciduous shrubs; one with California sagebrush and purple sage; one with California sagebrush and ashy buckwheat; and another, often of steep bluffs, with ashy buckwheat and low cover of coast yucca and giant coreopsis. Rhus integrifolia-Artemisia californica-Salvia leucophylla Phase (2155) Rhus integrifolia-Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Association Phase (7157) Rhus integrifolia-Eriogonum cinereum-Yucca whippleiCoreopsis gigantea Phase (7155)

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I.C.1.b.ii. Coast prickly pear cactus and ashy buckwheat are conspicuous species associated with lemonade berry, usually of coastal bluffs along the western end of the Santa Monica Mountains and volcanic slopes above the Oxnard Plain. Rhus integrifolia-Opuntia spp.-Eriogonum cinereum Association (2151) I.C.2. Holly leaf cherry occurs as a dominant or codominant shrub with other shrubs such as toyon in an open to intermittent overstory. Usually found in steep, mesic concavities or near rock outcroppings. Prunus ilicifolia Alliance (2120) I.C.2.a. Toyon occurs as a subdominant to codominant shrub in the overstory. Prunus ilicifolia-Heteromeles arbutifolia Association (2121) I.C.3. Toyon occurs as a codominant to dominant shrub in an open to continuous shrub overstory. Heteromeles arbutifolia Alliance (2130) I.C.3.a. Laurel sumac frequently occurs as a subdominant or codominant shrub with toyon in the overstory, and there may have several other shrub species (including Rhus spp.) associated in lower cover. Heteromeles arbutifolia-Malosma laurina Association (2138) Note: This is a complex association including five phases, each with a mixture of toyon and laurel sumac along with different shrubs as subdominants as indicated in the phase names. The Heteromeles phase has virtually no other major shrub species. Heteromeles arbutifolia-Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica-Mimulus aurantiacus Phase (2135) Heteromeles arbutifolia-Malosma laurina-Cercocarpus betuloides Phase (2136) Heteromeles arbutifolia-Malosma laurina-Quercus agrifolia Phase (2137) Heteromeles arbutifolia-Malosma laurina-Salvia mellifera-Rhus spp. Phase (2138) Heteromeles arbutifolia Phase (2137)

I.C.4. Sugar bush occurs as a dominant or codominant or sometimes may be subdominant to California sagebrush and/or purple sage in an open to intermittent shrub overstory with other shrub species. Rhus ovata Alliance (2190)

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I.C.4.a. Sugar bush is strongly dominant with a significantly lower cover of other shrubs. Rhus ovata Association (2193) I.C.4.b. Sugar bush tends to codominate with purple sage and/or California sagebrush. Rhus ovata-Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica Association (2192) I.D. Birch leaf mountain mahogany occurs as a dominant or codominant with other chaparral shrubs. I.D.1. Birch leaf mountain mahogany occurs as a dominant or codominant with other chaparral shrubs in an open to continuous shrub overstory. Cercocarpus betuloides Alliance (2110) I.D.1.a. Birch leaf mountain mahogany usually occurs as a strong dominant, though shrubs such as toyon may occur as subdominants. Cercocarpus betuloides Association (2114) I.D.1.b. Birch leaf mountain mahogany is codominant with chamise, although other shrubs may occur in lower cover, usually on upper northerly facing steep slopes adjacent to ridges. Cercocarpus betuloides-Adenostoma fasciculatum Association (2115) I.D.1.c. Birch leaf mountain mahogany is codominant with greenbark ceanothus, usually on lower, more mesic slope positions than the former association. Cercocarpus betuloides-Ceanothus spinosus Association (2113) I.D.1.d. Birch leaf mountain mahogany is dominant to codominant with laurel sumac and California sagebrush, usually found in coastal areas. Cercocarpus betuloides-Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica Association (2117) Note: This association is complex and includes two phases, one where laurel sumac is more of a clear codominant with birch leaf mountain mahogany while California sagebrush is subdominant, and another where laurel sumac and sagebrush

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are subdominant and Melica imperfecta is a conspicuous understory grass. Cercocarpus betuloides-Malosma laurina Phase (2117) Cercocarpus betuloides-Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica/Melica imperfecta Phase (2111)

I.E. Laurel sumac usually occurs as a codominant to dominant in an open to intermittent shrub overstory often with nonsclerophyllous shrubs such as California buckwheat, black sage (Salvia mellifera), or California sagebrush. Malosma laurina Alliance (2140) I.E.1. Laurel sumac is strongly dominant with significantly lower cover of all other shrub species, usually forming an open to intermittent shrub cover. Malosma laurina Association (7142) Note: This association includes a phase where annual grasses and herbs predominate in the understory, and another phase where the herbaceous layer is low in cover. Malosma laurina/Annual Grass-Herb Phase (2145) Malosma laurina Phase (7142)

I.E.2. California buckwheat occurs as a codominant short shrub along with the taller laurel sumac. Other shrubs may occur at low cover. Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum Association (21423) Note: This complex association includes three phases: one with other coastal sage species such as California sagebrush, one with essentially only the two nominate species in the shrub layer, and another with chaparral species such as big pod ceanothus as low cover associates. Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum-Artemisia californica/Annual GrassHerb Phase (3382) Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum Phase (21423) Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum-Heteromeles arbutifolia-Ceanothus megacarpus Phase (3383)

I.E.3. Black sage is usually codominant or a major subdominant shrub with laurel sumac. Ashy buckwheat is not present in significant cover. Malosma laurina-Salvia mellifera Association (2148) I.E.4. Sugar bush and big pod ceanothus are constant subdominants with laurel sumac. Malosma laurina-Rhus ovata-Ceanothus megacarpus Association (21415) C1188-1/c

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I.E.5. Ashy buckwheat is a codominant to subdominant with laurel sumac. Several other shrubs may be associated at lower cover. Malosma laurina-Eriogonum cinereum Association (2141) Note: This complex association includes five phases each with different subdominants or, in one case, only with the two nominate species as codominants. At least two are postfire phases indicated by the presence of either bush mallow or deerweed. Malosma laurina-Eriogonum cinereum-Lotus scoparius Phase (7144) Malosma laurina-Eriogonum cinereum-Salvia mellifera Phase (7141) Malosma laurina-Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Eriogonum cinereum-Salvia mellifera Phase (7146) Malosma laurina-Rhus integrifolia-Eriogonum cinereum-Artemisia californica Phase (21413) Malosma laurina-Eriogonum cinereum Phase (2141)

I.E.6. Laurel sumac codominates or dominates with California sagebrush. Stands may or may not include purple sage as a subdominant. Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica Association (7148) Note: This complex association may include stands where purple sage occurs as a subdominant along with the other two nominate shrubs or stands where the nominate species are the only significant shrub cover. Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica-Salvia leucophylla Phase (2142) Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica Phase (7148)

I.F. A manzanita species occurs as a dominant in the shrub overstory. I.F.1. Eastwood manzanita occurs as the sole dominant in the shrub overstory, usually making up at least two-thirds of the total shrub cover, uncommon at the upper elevations in the Santa Monica Mountains. Arctostaphylos glandulosa Alliance, Arctostaphylos glandulosa Association (2550) I.F.2. Big berry manzanita occurs as a dominant in the shrub overstory, most common in the Simi Hills portion of the study area. Arctostaphylos glauca Alliance (2540) I.G. The overstory is dominated by Ceanothus alone or in shared dominance with other broadleaf evergreen shrubs. I.G.1. Hoary leaf ceanothus (Ceanothus crassifolius) usually occurs as a dominant or as a codominant with species such as laurel sumac. Ceanothus crassifolius Alliance (2060) C1188-1/c

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I.G.1.a. Hoary leaf ceanothus occurs as the sole dominant species, and other chaparral shrubs, if present, are relatively low in cover. Ceanothus crassifolius Association (2063) I.G.1.b. Laurel sumac occurs as a subdominant to codominant in the shrub overstory. Ceanothus crassifolius-Malosma laurina Association (2065) I.G.2. Wedge leaf ceanothus (Ceanothus cuneatus) occurs as the dominant in an open to intermittent shrub overstory. Ceanothus cuneatus Alliance (2520) I.G.2.a. Wedge leaf ceanothus occurs with a constant subordinate cover of scrub oak, and stands are scattered throughout the central portion of the Santa Monica Mountains. Ceanothus cuneatus-Quercus berberidifolia Association (2521) I.G.3. Big pod ceanothus (Ceanothus megacarpus) is dominant in an intermittent to continuous shrub overstory. Ceanothus megacarpus Alliance (2080) I.G.3.a. Big pod ceanothus is the sole dominant shrub with no other species at significant cover in the stands. Ceanothus megacarpus Association (2081) I.G.3.b. Big pod ceanothus is dominant with chamise subdominant to codominant. Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma fasciculatum Association (2083) Note: This complex association includes a phase with black sage as a subdominant along with chamise and a phase where just the two nominate species are present in the shrub layer. Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma fasciculatumSalvia mellifera Phase (7083) Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma fasciculatum Phase (2083)

I.G.3.c. Big pod ceanothus occurs as a dominant along with redshank as a subdominant. Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma sparsifolium Association (2082)

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I.G.3.d. Big pod ceanothus occurs as a dominant with birch leaf mountain mahogany as a subdominant. May also include scrub oak in the stand. Ceanothus megacarpus-Cercocarpus betuloides Association (2084) I.G.3.e. Big pod ceanothus dominates with a subdominance of laurel sumac. May have other shrubs in lower cover such as chamise and black sage. Ceanothus megacarpus-Malosma laurina Association (2087) Note: This complex association includes two phases: one with chamise and other chaparral species and another with the two nominate species providing almost all of the cover. Ceanothus megacarpus-Malosma laurina-Adenostoma fasciculatum Mixed Chaparral Phase (7081) Ceanothus megacarpus-Malosma laurina Phase (2087)

I.G.3.f. Big pod ceanothus dominates with a subdominance of black sage. Ceanothus megacarpus-Salvia mellifera Association (7085) I.G.3.g. Big pod ceanothus dominates or codominates with chaparral mallow. Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Ceanothus megacarpus Association (3288) I.G.3.h. Big pod ceanothus is the dominant or codominant along with the subdominant to codominant greenbark ceanothus. Ceanothus spinosus-Ceanothus megacarpus Association (2091) I.G.4. Hairy leaf ceanothus (Ceanothus oliganthus) is usually dominant in an open to continuous shrub overstory, typical in mesic sites at upper elevations or interior locations in the study area. Ceanothus oliganthus Alliance (2070) I.G.4.a. Hairy leaf ceanothus is the dominant shrub, no other species provides high cover in the shrub layer. Ceanothus oliganthus Association (2072) I.G.4.b. Hairy leaf ceanothus is the dominant shrub, but redshank is a regular subdominant. Ceanothus oliganthus-Adenostoma sparsifolium Association (2078) C1188-1/c

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I.G.4.c. Toyon and/or sugar bush are subdominant to hairy leaf ceanothus. Ceanothus oliganthus-Heteromeles arbutifolia-Rhus ovata Association (2076) I.G.4.d. Scrub oak is subdominant to hairy leaf ceanothus. Ceanothus oliganthus-Quercus berberidifolia Association (2077) I.G.5. Stands are dominated by the large mesophytic greenbark ceanothus. Ceanothus spinosus Alliance (2090) I.G.5.a. Greenbark ceanothus strongly dominates the shrub overstory with only minor cover of other shrubs including toyon, holly leaf cherry, or laurel sumac. Ceanothus spinosus Association (2092) Note: This complex association includes three phases based on the subordinate shrub species. In one case greenbark ceanothus is the sole dominant. Ceanothus spinosus-Heteromeles arbutifolia-Prunus ilicifolia Phase (2094) Ceanothus spinosus-Malosma laurina Phase (2097) Ceanothus spinosus Phase (2090)

I.G.5.b. Greenbark ceanothus is the dominant or codominant along with the subdominant to codominant big pod ceanothus. Ceanothus spinosus-Ceanothus megacarpus Association (2091) I.H. The overstory is dominated by chamise alone or in shared dominance with other chaparral or coastal scrub species in an open to continuous shrub canopy. I.H.1. Chamise occurs as a dominant or as a codominant with laurel sumac, California buckwheat, big pod ceanothus, or other shrubs such as yerba santa or bush monkey flower. Adenostoma fasciculatum Alliance (2010) I.H.1.a. Chamise occurs as a sole dominant shrub with no other constant subdominants. Adenostoma fasciculatum Association (2011) I.H.1.b. Big pod ceanothus occurs as a codominant or subdominant with chamise. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus megacarpus Association (2019) C1188-1/c

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I.H.1.c. California buckwheat occurs as a subdominant or codominant with chamise. I.H.1.c.i. Chamise and California buckwheat occur in an open to intermittent shrub overstory with various mostly nonnative herbs among these two shrubs. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Eriogonum fasciculatum Association (2017) Note: This complex association includes the postfire or postdisturbance phases. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Eriogonum fasciculatum/Annual Grass-Herb Phase (2017) Adenostoma fasciculatum-Lotus scoparius-Dendromecon rigida Phase (7012)

I.H.1.d. Laurel sumac usually occurs as a codominant with chamise. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Malosma laurina Association (2013) I.H.1.d.i Laurel sumac and Chamise are joined with yerba santa in an open to intermittent shrub overstory over annual herbs and grasses. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Malosma laurina-Eriodictyon crassifolium/Annual Grass-Herb Association (7018) I.H.1.e. Chamise is dominant to codominant with bush monkey flower. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Mimulus aurantiacus Association (7013) I.H.1.f. Chamise is dominant and accompanied by purple sage as a subdominant to occasional codominant. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia leucophylla Association (2018) I.H.2. Eastwood manzanita is usually codominant (occasionally subdominant) with chamise in an open to continuous shrub overstory. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glandulosa Alliance (2020) I.H.2.a. Eastwood manzanita occurs as a codominant with chamise and may have big pod ceanothus as a subdominant. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glandulosa Association (2021)

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Note: Included is the variant with big pod ceanothus consistently present at low cover. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus megacarpusArctostaphylos glandulosa Phase (7017)

I.H.3. Big berry manzanita usually occurs as a codominant with chamise in an intermittent to continuous shrub overstory. Wedge leaf ceanothus, cup leaf ceanothus, and hoary leaf ceanothus are absent or subdominant. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glauca Alliance (2530) Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glauca Association (2531) I.H.4. Hoary leaf ceanothus usually occurs as a codominant with chamise in an open to intermittent shrub overstory locally with other shrubs including laurel sumac. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus crassifolius Alliance (2570) I.H.4.a. Laurel sumac characteristically occurs as a subdominant or codominant and is lower in cover than hoary leaf ceanothus and chamise. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus crassifolius-Malosma laurina Association (2572) I.H.5. Wedge leaf ceanothus occurs as a codominant with chamise in an intermittent to continuous shrub overstory. Other shrubs may intermix as subdominants. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus cuneatus Alliance (2510) I.H.5.a Black sage and laurel sumac occur as subdominants to chamise and wedge leaf ceanothus in an intermittent to continuous shrub overstory. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus cuneatus-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Alliance Association (2511) I.H.6. Black sage usually occurs as codominant with chamise in an open to continuous shrub overstory. Wedge leaf ceanothus is absent or, if present, < 5% relative cover. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Alliance (2030) Note: If wedge leaf ceanothus is present at significant cover, see heading I.H.5.

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I.H.6.a. Laurel sumac occurs as a subdominant. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Association (2035) I.H.6.b. Sugar bush occurs as a subdominant and is consistently lower in cover than black sage. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera-Rhus ovata Association (2038) I.H.6.c. Chamise and black sage are sole principal shrubs with an open herbaceous understory composed mainly of nonnative species. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Association (2036) I.H.7. Scrub oak codominates with chamise (chamise and scrub oak each > 15% relative cover in the shrub layer), other shrubs in the stands are significantly less cover. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Quercus berberidifolia Alliance (2580) Adenostoma fasciculatum-Quercus berberidifolia Association (2581) I.I. The overstory is dominated by redshank alone or in shared dominance with other chaparral (including chamise), deciduous, or succulent species in an open to continuous shrub canopy. I.I.1. Redshank occurs as a dominant. If chamise is present, it occurs at trace cover. Adenostoma sparsifolium Alliance (2050) I.I.2. Redshank usually occurs with chamise as a codominant in an open to continuous shrub layer. Adenostoma sparsifolium-Adenostoma fasciculatum Alliance (2040) I.I.2.a. Hoary leaf ceanothus are characteristically present at > 1% cover. Adenostoma sparsifolium-Adenostoma fasciculatumCeanothus crassifolius Association (2042)

Group II. Shrublands are dominated mainly by soft-leaved or succulent shrubs that are microphyllous or broad-leaved, and they include cactus, drought-deciduous, summer-deciduous, and/or cold-deciduous species. These are generally considered to be part of coastal sage scrub or other more soft-leaved shrub habitats. Chaparral species may be present but are

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not dominant. Included are shrub willow (Salix), baccharis (Baccharis), buckwheat (Eriogonum), sagebrush (Artemisia), sage (Salvia), prickly pear (Opuntia), bush mallow (Malacothamnus), poison oak (Toxicodendron), California rose (Rosa californica), Canyon sunflower (Venegasia carpesioides), and so forth. II.A. The shrub overstory is characterized by deciduous shrubs or by shrubs with scale-like leaves that are primarily found in riparian or wetland habitats. II.A.1. Shrublands are characterized by the presence of scale broom (Lepidospartum squamatum), where scale broom is usually dominant but may be codominant or subdominant with other shrubs. These are generally found in rocky, occasionally flooded washes or floodplains. Lepidospartum squamatum Alliance (2220) II.A.2. Shrublands are characterized by the dominance of mule fat alone or in shared dominance with other shrubs. An emergent and sparse tree layer of willows or other species may also be present. Baccharis salicifolia Alliance (2210) Baccharis salicifolia-Riparian Association (2212) II.A.3. Shrublands in which a willow (Salix) is dominant, usually as a tall shrub or low tree. An emergent and sparse overstory tree layer may also be present. II.A.3.a. Arroyo willow is the dominant species. (Note: May also be considered a tree, see tree key above.) It may be accompanied by mule fat (Baccharis salicifolia), laurel sumac (Malosma laurina), or other riparian shrubs. Salix lasiolepis Alliance (1430) II.A.3.a.i. Laurel sumac is a subdominant to codominant with arroyo willow. Salix lasiolepis/Malosma laurina Association (1433) II.A.3.a.ii. Mule fat is a characteristic subdominant or codominant with arroyo willow. Salix lasiolepis/Baccharis salicifolia Association (1432) II.A.3.b. Narrow leaf willow (Salix exigua) dominates but is uncommon in small shrubby stands. Salix exigua Alliance (3110)

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II.A.4. Shrublands in which California rose (Rosa californica) dominates the canopy, usually small narrow strips adjacent to other riparian vegetation. Rosa californica Alliance (3010) II.A.5. Shrublands in which Mexican elderberry (Sambucus mexicana) is dominant in the overstory (although other shorter shrubs may be common). At times, the elderberry may take the form of a small tree. Sambucus mexicana Alliance (3020) II.A.5.a. Mexican elderberry occurs over a mixture of herbaceous species including the native giant wild rye (Leymus condensatus) and other annual grasses and herbs. Sambucus mexicana/Leymus condensatus/Annual Grass-Herb Association (3021) II.A.5.b. Mexican elderberry occurs with toyon and annual grasses and herbs in the understory. Sambucus mexicana-Heteromeles arbutifolia/Annual GrassHerb Association (3022) II.B. Shrublands are dominated by drought-deciduous or coastal succulent shrubs that are primarily in upland or mesic habitats. II.B.1. Shrubland is usually characterized by the dominance of a species of encelia (Encelia) alone or in shared dominance with other shrubs. California sagebrush (Artemisia californica) occasionally may be dominant when encelia has at least 5 percent cover. II.B.1.a. Shrubland in which California encelia (Encelia californica) is dominant or codominant in the canopy. Encelia californica Alliance (3220) II.B.1.a.i. California encelia is the sole dominant or occurs with subdominant California buckwheat. Encelia californica Association (3222) Note: Included is one phase with California buckwheat as subdominant and another phase in which California encelia is strongly dominant. Encelia californica-Eriogonum fasciculatum Phase (3224) Encelia californica Phase (3222)

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II.B.1.a.ii. California sagebrush is characteristically subdominant to codominant with California encelia. Encelia californica-Artemisia californica Association (3227) II.B.1.a.iii. Ashy buckwheat (Eriogonum cinereum) codominates or is subdominant with California encelia. Encelia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Association (3225) II.B.1.a.iv. Laurel sumac and black sage regularly occur with and may codominate with California encelia. Encelia californica-Malosma laurina-Salvia mellifera Association (3221) II.B.1.a.v. Lemonade berry (Rhus integrifolia) co-occurs as a subdominant to California encelia. Encelia californica-Rhus integrifolia Association (3226) II.B.2. Shrubland with a succulent coastal prickly pear (Opuntia oricola or littoralis) or cholla (Opuntia prolifera) is dominant. II.B.2.a. Coast prickly pear (Opuntia littoralis) is dominant or codominant with coastal sage scrub species and other cactus species. Opuntia littoralis Alliance (2410) II.B.2.a.i. A mixture of Opuntia species (littoralis, oricola, and/or prolifera) may be present along with other coastal sage scrub species (Eriogonum spp., Encelia californica, Artemisia californica, etc.). Opuntia spp.-Mixed Coastal Sage Scrub Association (2412) II.B.3. Shrubland in which giant coreopsis (Coreopsis gigantea) is dominant or codominant in the shrub overstory. Coreopsis gigantea Alliance (3340) II.B.3.a. Giant coreopsis is codominant to dominant with California sagebrush and ashy buckwheat. Generally found on sea bluffs and steep slopes within one kilometer of the ocean but may extend a few kilometers inland when directly adjacent to the Conejo Plain. Coreopsis gigantea-Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Association (3345)

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II.B.3.b. Giant coreopsis dominates or codominates with dune goldenbush and California encelia. Usually on sandy soils of dunes or slopes adjacent to the ocean, mostly localized around Point Dume. Coreopsis gigantea-Ericameria ericoides-Encelia californica Association (3342) II.B.4. Shrubland in which California sagebrush (Artemisia) is dominant or codominant with white sage, black sage, California buckwheat, or laurel sumac in the canopy. The shrub canopy is sometimes over a higher cover of annual or perennial herbs such as bromes (Bromus), cryptantha (Cryptantha), stork's bill (Erodium), etc. II.B.4.a. California sagebrush is codominant with California buckwheat and sometimes also with laurel sumac. Artemisia californica-Eriogonum fasciculatum Alliance (3370) II.B.4.a.i. California sagebrush and California buckwheat usually codominate in the canopy. Artemisia californica-Eriogonum fasciculatum/Annual Grass-Herb Association (3371) II.B.4.a.ii. California buckwheat and purple sage occur as subdominants to codominants with California sagebrush. Artemisia californica-Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia leucophylla Association (3372) II.B.4.a.iii. California buckwheat is usually codominant with California sagebrush, while black sage is subdominant to codominant. Artemisia californica-Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Association (3373) II.B.4.b. California sagebrush is codominant with purple sage, and sometimes other shrubs may also be codominant. Salvia leucophylla Alliance (3310) II.B.4.b.i. California sagebrush and purple sage are the sole dominants in the shrub canopy. Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica Association (3391)

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Note: Included is a phase with giant wild rye at moderate cover and a phase in which the nominate species are the only species of significant cover. Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus Phase (3393) Salvia leucophylla- Artemisia californica Phase (3391)

II.B.4.b.ii. California sagebrush and purple sage codominate, while ashy buckwheat is usually subdominant and Nassella sp. is characteristic of the herb layer. Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum/Nassella sp. Association (3396) Note: Included are the following three phases: one of which has ashy buckwheat along with the codominants, and two have the following shrub species: Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica-Malosma laurina/Nassella sp. Phase (3395) Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica-Mimulus aurantiacus Phase (3392) Salvia leucophylla- Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum/Nassella sp. Phase (3396)

II.B.4.c. California sagebrush is the sole dominant species in the canopy, or it is sometimes codominant with laurel sumac, ashy buckwheat, or bush monkey flower. A higher cover of annual or perennial herbs such as bromes (Bromus) may be present. Artemisia californica Alliance (3210) II.B.4.c.i. California sagebrush is the sole dominant species in the shrub canopy, stands may be open to dense with a sparse to dense understory of herbaceous species. Artemisia californica Association (8213) Note: This complex association includes three phases that may be distinguished by the additional species or species groups in the epithets. In the two shrub phases, the associated species are characteristic but relatively low in cover. Artemisia californica/Annual Grass-Herb Phase (8213) Artemisia californica-Salvia leucophylla Phase (3211) Artemisia californica-Malosma laurina Phase (3219)

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II.B.4.c.ii. Giant wild rye is a conspicuous understory species (may be as tall as California sagebrush) while California sagebrush is the main cover in the shrub overstory. Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus Association (3216) II.B.4.c.iii. Ashy buckwheat is a subdominant to codominant with California sagebrush. Bush monkey flower and the understory grass Melica imperfecta may be present. Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Association (3214) Note: This complex association includes a phase with just the two nominate species as the major species and a phase where bush monkey flower and Melica imperfecta are subdominant species. Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum-Mimulus aurantiacus/Melica imperfecta Phase (3218) Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Phase (3214)

II.B.4.c.iv. Bush monkey flower occurs as the principle codominant or subdominant with California sagebrush. If ashy buckwheat is present, it is at trace cover only. Artemisia californica-Mimulus aurantiacus Association (8214) II.B.5. Shrubland in which a sage (Salvia) species is dominant in the canopy or codominant with California buckwheat or brittlebush. II.B.5.a. White sage is present in the canopy, usually subdominant to codominant with California buckwheat. Other shrubs may be present at relatively low cover such as California sagebrush, laurel sumac, etc. Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia apiana Alliance, E. fasciculatum-S. apiana Association (3410) II.B.5.b. Black sage is usually dominant in the shrub canopy but may codominate with California sagebrush, deerweed (Lotus scoparius), sugar bush (Rhus ovata), or ashy buckwheat Salvia mellifera Alliance (3320)

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II.B.5.b.i. Black sage is dominant in the shrub overstory but may occur with subdominant chamise, bush mallow, or California buckwheat. Salvia mellifera Association (3324) Note: This complex association includes a pure phase where black sage is strongly dominant, a phase in which chamise occurs as a low-cover subdominant, a postfire phase with bush mallow, and a phase with low cover of California buckwheat. Salvia mellifera Phase (3324) Salvia mellifera-Adenostoma fasciculatum Phase (3329) Salvia mellifera-Malacothamnus fasciculatus Phase (3322) Salvia mellifera-Eriogonum fasciculatum Phase (3321)

II.B.5.b.ii. Laurel sumac is subdominant to codominant in the shrub overstory, while stands may also include low cover of lemonade berry and California sagebrush. Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Association (8324) Note: This complex association has been divided into two phases: one in which the nominate species alone prevail and the other based on the low cover of the characteristically associated lemonade berry. Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Phase (8324) Salvia mellifera-Artemisia californica-Rhus integrifolia Phase (8322)

II.B.5.b.iii. Sugar bush is subdominant to codominant in the shrub overstory. Salvia mellifera-Rhus ovata Association (8325) II.B.5.b.iv. Ashy buckwheat occurs as a subdominant to codominant with black sage. Salvia mellifera-Eriogonum cinereum Association (3323) II.B.5.b.v. California sagebrush is subdominant to codominant with black sage; stands may include subdominant purple sage. Salvia mellifera-Artemisia californica Association (8321/3421) Note: This association includes one phase where purple sage occurs as a subdominant. Salvia mellifera-Artemisia californica-Salvia leucophylla Phase (8323)

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II.B.5.c. Black sage usually occurs as codominant with chamise in an open to continuous shrub overstory. Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Alliance (2030) (For associations in this alliance, see heading I.H.6. in class B, group I [chaparral] of the shrub key above.) II.B.5.d. Purple sage is the dominant shrub or may be codominant with ashy buckwheat. Salvia leucophylla Alliance (3310) II.B.5.d.i. Purple sage is dominant in the shrub layer but may be accompanied by lower cover of several other species including ashy buckwheat, California sagebrush, bush mallow, or understory species of native and nonnative grasses and herbs. Salvia leucophylla Association (3316) Note: This complex association includes the following three phases in which other grasses and shrubs may be present as subdominants and the last phase in which only purple sage is significant in the stands. Salvia leucophylla/Leymus condensatus Phase (3319) Salvia leucophylla/Nassella spp. Phase (3311) Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica-Malacothamnus fasciculatus Phase (8311) Salvia leucophylla Phase (3315)

II.B.5.d.ii. Ashy buckwheat occurs as a subdominant or codominant with purple sage, usually in an open to intermittent canopy with annual species in the understory. Salvia leucophylla-Eriogonum cinereum/Annual Grass-Herb Association (3312) II.B.5.d.iii. California sagebrush occurs as a codominant with purple sage. Salvia leucophylla Alliance, Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica Associations (For associations in this alliance, see heading II.B.4.b. in class B, group II [coastal sage scrub] of the shrub key above.) II.B.6. Shrubland in which a buckwheat (Eriogonum) species is dominant in the canopy or is codominant with black sage, laurel sumac, bush mallow, or white sage. The shrub canopy is sometimes over a higher

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cover of annual or perennial herbs such as bromes (Bromus), cryptantha (Cryptantha), stork's bill (Erodium), wild oats (Avena), etc. II.B.6.a. California buckwheat is dominant with other shrubs in the canopy. Eriogonum fasciculatum Alliance (3240) II.B.6.a.i. California buckwheat is usually the dominant shrub in the canopy, from coastal to inland sites, though sometimes this buckwheat may codominate with deerweed (Lotus scoparius). Eriogonum fasciculatum Association (3241) Note: Included is a postfire/disturbance phase with deerweed subdominant to codominant and a phase in which California buckwheat is the sole dominant. Eriogonum fasciculatum-Lotus scoparius Phase (3249) Eriogonum fasciculatum Phase (3241)

II.B.6.a.ii. California buckwheat is dominant, and black sage and laurel sumac occur as subdominants. Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Association (3248) II.B.6.b. Ashy buckwheat occurs as the dominant low shrub but may be mixed with lower cover of other shrubs such as bush mallow (Malacothamnus fasciculatus). Eriogonum cinereum Alliance (3250) II.B.6.b.i. Ashy buckwheat dominates with a variable cover of annual and perennial herbs and grasses. Eriogonum cinereum Association (3257) Note: Included is the postfire phase and a phase in which ashy buckwheat is the strong dominant. Eriogonum cinereum-Malacothamnus fasciculatus/Leymus condensatus Phase (3259) Eriogonum cinereum Phase (3257)

II.B.7. Successional shrublands in which short-lived subshrubs or shrubs of deerweed (Lotus scoparius), bush poppy (Dendromecon rigida), or bush mallow (Malacothamnus fasciculatus) dominate following disturbance, particularly fire. The shrub canopy is sometimes over a higher cover of annual or perennial herbs such as bromes (Bromus),

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common sand aster (Lessingia filaginifolia), needlegrass (Nassella), stork's bill, wild oats, etc. II.B.7.a. Deerweed (Lotus scoparius) is the dominant subshrub species in the canopy. Lotus scoparius Alliance, Lotus scoparius Association (3270) Note: Included are the following two phases: Lotus scoparius-Artemisia californica/Annual Grass-Herb Phase (3273) Lotus scoparius-Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Phase (3272)

II.B.7.b. Bush mallow (Malacothamnus fasciculatus) is the dominant or codominant shrub species in the canopy. It may be associated with a variety of chaparral or coastal scrub species, which may be subdominant to codominant. These stands typically arise following fire events and do not persist for more than a decade or so. Malacothamnus fasciculatus Alliance (3280) II.B.7.b.i. Stands strongly dominated by bush mallow with no other significant cover by shrub species. Malacothamnus fasciculatus Association (3287) II.B.7.b.ii. Bush mallow associated with subdominant or codominant greenbark ceanothus. Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Ceanothus spinosus Association (3289) II.B.7.b.iii. Bush mallow associated with subdominant or codominant big pod ceanothus. Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Ceanothus megacarpus Association (3288) II.B.7.b.iv. Bush mallow is associated with subdominant laurel sumac. Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Malosma laurina Association (3286)

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II.B.7.b.v. Bush mallow is associated with subdominant to codominant purple sage and often with subdominant California sagebrush. Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Salvia leucophylla Association (3281) II.B.7.b.vi. Bush mallow associated with subdominant to codominant black sage. Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Salvia mellifera Association (3282) II.B.7.c. Bush poppy dominates, usually following chaparral burns (This may also be keyed in chaparral/sclerophyllous shrubland key [Group 1 A of shrub key].) Dendromecon rigida Alliance, Dendromecon rigida Association (3350) II.B.8. Shrub canopy dominated by the largely locally introduced quail bush (Atriplex lentiformis), usually along the coastal strip near highways. Atriplex lentiformis Alliance (2330) II.B.9. Shrub canopy dominated by the low facultatively droughtdeciduous bush monkey flower. Mimulus aurantiacus Alliance (2170) II.B.9.a. Bush monkey flower is dominant and often has regularly spaced large shrubs of laurel sumac. Mimulus aurantiacus-Malosma laurina Association (2172) Note: This complex association includes a phase with purple sage as subdominant with laurel sumac as well as a phase in which only the nominate species prevail in the shrub layer. Mimulus aurantiacus-Malosma laurina-Salvia leucophylla Phase (2172) Mimulus aurantiacus-Malosma laurina Phase (2172)

II.C. Shrublands are typically uplands, dominated by cold-deciduous or thin broad-leaved species of mesic situations. II.C.1. Poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum) is dominant in the shrub canopy, while a variety of other shrubs and herbs may also occur at lower cover. Toxicodendron diversilobum Alliance (3330)

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II.C.1.a. California sagebrush and giant wild rye mix as subdominants with poison oak in these stands. Toxicodendron diversilobum-Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus Association (3331) II.C.1.b. Bush monkey flower is the subdominant shrub species in the canopy. Toxicodendron diversilobum-Mimulus aurantiacus Association (3332) II.C.2. Mexican elderberry (Sambucus mexicana) is the dominant shrub species in the canopy, although other species such as Salvia leucophylla, Artemisia californica, and Malosma laurina may be present. At times, the elderberry may take the form of a small tree. Sambucus mexicana Alliance (3020) II.C.2.a. Elderberry is dominant or codominant with toyon present or conspicuous. Sambucus mexicana-Heteromeles arbutifolia/Annual GrassHerb Association (3022) II.C.2.b. Elderberry is the dominant shrub species over the perennial giant wild rye and other annual herbs and grasses. Sambucus mexicana-Leymus condensatus/Annual Grass-Herb Association (3021) II.C.3. Canyon sunflower, a leafy shrub of mesic slopes, conspicuous after fire, is dominant. Venegasia carpesioides Alliance (4750) Group III. Vegetation dominated by microphyllous evergreen shrubs including coyote brush (Baccharis pilularis), cut-leaved goldenbush (Hazardia squarrosa), and broom (Spartium junceum). III.A. Coyote brush is dominant, often with shrubs of coastal sage, such as Artemisia californica and Salvia leucophylla, as subordinates. Sometimes coyote brush is codominant, usually in disturbed areas such as old fields, road banks, and stream and ravine borders. Baccharis pilularis Alliance (2310) III.A.1. Coyote brush dominates over a mixture of native and nonnative annual grasses and herbs. Baccharis pilularis/Annual Grass-Herb Association (2311)

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III.A.2. Coyote brush dominates with California sagebrush as a subdominant. Purple sage and laurel sumac may be present. Baccharis pilularis-Artemisia californica Association (2313) Note: Included are three phases in which one has both California sagebrush and purple sage occurring as subdominants, one has both California sagebrush and laurel sumac as subdominants, and one in which only sagebrush and coyote bush occur. Baccharis pilularis-Artemisia californica-Salvia leucophylla Phase (2315) Baccharis pilularis-Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica Phase (2314) Baccharis pilularis-Artemisia californica Phase (2313)

III.B. Cut-leaved goldenbush is the dominant low shrub usually with a mixture of herbs and grasses plus a low cover of California sagebrush and other shrubs. Hazardia squarrosa Alliance (3260) III.B.1. Cut-leaved goldenbush dominates with a lower cover of California sagebrush usually present. Giant wild rye and/or a mixture of annual grasses and herbs may be present. Hazardia squarrosa-Artemisia californica Association (3262) III.B.1.a. Understory is usually strongly dominated by a mixture of annual grasses and herbs; giant wild rye is absent or inconspicuous. Hazardia squarrosa/Annual Grass-Herb Phase (3261) III.B.1.b. Herb layer is usually with a significant cover of giant wild rye. Hazardia squarrosa-Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus Phase (3262) III.B.2. Cut-leaved goldenbush dominates with open or intermediate cover over a herbaceous layer characterized by the native grass Nassella pulchra and the native annual herb Hemizonia fasciculate. Hazardia squarrosa/Nassella pulchra-Hemizonia fasciculata Association (3263) III.C. The nonnative Spanish broom dominates stands usually closely associated with road cuts in the Santa Monica Mountains. Spartium junceum Alliance (9542)

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Class C. Herbaceous Vegetation Group I. Vegetation is dominated by mainly freshwater wetland forb species including cattail (Typha), rush (Juncus), sedge (Carex), spike rush (Eleocharis), and giant reed grass (Arundo) species. Woody species cover < 2% of the ground surface. I.A. Stands are dominated with > 30% absolute cover by tall (generally > 1 m) wetland grasses and graminoids including cattails (Typha), bulrushes and tules (Scirpus), and reeds (Arundo donax). I.A.1. Vegetation of common bulrush (S. acutus) and/or California bulrush (S. californicus) provides the main cover in the herbaceous canopy. Scirpus acutus-Scirpus californicus Alliance (4410) I.A.2. Cattails (Typha spp.) are dominant, usually in standing fresh or brackish water. Typha spp. Alliance (4420) I.A.3. Dense stands are dominated by giant reed (Arundo donax), generally small and locally distributed along streams and creeks. Arundo donax Alliance (4310) I.B. Stands are dominated by grasses and graminoids that are generally between 0.1–1 m tall including rushes (Juncus) and sedges (Carex). I.B.1. A rush species, specifically common rush (Juncus effusus), is the sole dominant in the herb overstory. Juncus effusus Alliance (4330) I.C. Stands are dominated (> 30% relative cover) by annual or perennial forbs. I.C.1. Vegetation is dominated > 30% relative cover by the perennial noxious forb perennial pepperweed (Lepidium latifolium), occasional along creeks and valley bottoms, especially in the Malibu Creek watershed. Lepidium latifolium Alliance (4780) Group II. Vegetation dominated mainly by upland and mesic herbaceous species including native and exotic grasses, forbs, and cryptogrammic species. If woody species are present, they cover < 10% of the ground surface.

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II.A. Vegetation is dominated by a mixture of native perennial grasses and annuals, with the native grasses usually making up > 10% relative cover of the herbaceous layer. II.A.1. Native grass component is usually mainly purple needlegrass (Nassella pulchra), and the annual component is a mixture of grasses and forbs. Nassella pulchra Alliance (4020) II.A.1.a. Purple needlegrass co-occurs with < 10% cover of the low microphyllous shrub cut-leaved goldenbush. Nassella pulchra-Hazardia squarrosa Association (4021) II.A.2. Native grass component is dominated by foothill needlegrass (Nassella lepida) alone or in shared dominance with other native and nonnative grasses and forbs. Stands are uncommon and may include emergent shrubs of the coastal sage scrub formation. Nassella lepida Alliance (4090) II.A.3. Stands are usually on slopes associated with scrub or woodland vegetation dominated by the coarse, moderately tall giant wild rye. Leymus condensatus Alliance (4040) Leymus condensatus Association (4041) II.A.4. Stands of the lowland or valley bottom species creeping wild rye (Leymus triticoides) are generally small and uncommon in study area. Leymus triticoides Alliance (4030) II.B. Vegetation is dominated mainly by nonnative invasive perennial bunchgrasses. II.B.1. Fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum) occurs as the dominant species, though other species may be subdominant, usually on steep coastal bluffs or road cuts. Pennisetum setaceum Alliance (4060) II.B.1.a. While fountain grass is dominant, native coastal shrubs such as Coreopsis gigantea, Malosma laurina, and Yucca whipplei occur as subdominants. Pennisetum setaceum-Coreopsis gigantea-Yucca whippleiMalosma laurina Association (4061)

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II.B.2. Harding grass (Phalaris aquatica) is dominant with at least 40–50% relative cover, usually in old low-lying pastures and bottomland grasslands. Phalaris aquatica Alliance (4070) II.C. Grasslands or forb lands are strongly dominated by nonnative annual grasses and forbs including red brome, ripgut brome, Italian ryegrass, wild oat, star thistle, and black mustard. There may be native species, but these may be relatively low cover. California Annual Grassland Alliance (5000/4340) II.C.1. Ripgut brome (Bromus diandrus) is abundant; however, an assortment of other herbs and grasses also usually occur in the stands including native species such as sun cup (Camissonia spp.), common sand aster (Lessingia filaginifolia), etc. Bromus diandrus-Mixed Herb Association (50005) II.C.2. Ripgut brome (Bromus diandrus) is abundant or codominant with nonnative oats (Avena barbata and/or A. fatua). Bromus diandrus-Avena spp. Association (50007) II.C.3. Wild oats (Avena fatua) are dominant with lower cover of all other nonnative and native species. Avena fatua Association (4220) II.C.4. Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) is strongly dominant with low cover of all other nonnative and native species and is often found in lowlying portions of grasslands. Lolium multiflorum Association (4210) II.C.5. Black mustard (Brassica nigra) is dominant or codominant in stands made up largely of other nonnative herbs and grasses. II.C.5.a. Black mustard is the sole dominant. Brassica nigra Association (50006) II.C.5.b. Ripgut brome and black mustard are both important or codominant in the stands. Brassica nigra-Bromus diandrus Association (50009) II.C.5.c. Black mustard and star thistle (Centaurea melitensis) are both important or codominant in the stands. Brassica nigra-Centaurea melitensis Association (50008)

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II.D. Stands of vegetation dominated by medium to tall introduced perennial herbs including fennel and Euphorbia terracina. II.D.1. Sweet fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) dominates usually weedy stands along road cuts and steep coastal slopes but also may be found in bottomlands on the edge of the Conejo Plain. Foeniculum vulgare Alliance (4760) II.D.2. The noxious perennial weed Euphorbia terracina dominates fields, fire clearance areas, and roadsides along the immediate coast. Euphorbia terracina Nonnative Stands (4771) Group III. Vegetation dominated mainly by relatively low perennial forbs and graminoids of coastal, more or less, saline environments including brackish and salt marshes, sea cliffs, and dunes. III.A. Salt marsh vegetation dominated or codominated by pickleweed (Salicornia virginica and/or S. subterminalis). Salicornia virginica Alliance (4520) III.A.1. Pickleweed (Salicornia virginica) form and are open to intermittent cover over mudflats with marine filamentous algae. Salicornia virginica/Algae Association (4528) III.A.2. Salicornia virginica mix as dominant, codominant, or subdominant with Salicornia subterminalis. Salicornia virginica-Salicornia subterminalis Association (4525) III.A.3. Salicornia virginica is dominant with a constant presence of California sea blite, often seen near salt pans. Salicornia virginica-Suaeda taxifolia (synonym S. californica var. taxifolia) Association (4525) III.A.4. Salicornia virginica codominates with Jaumea carnosa and perennial grass Distichlis spicata. Distichlis spicata-Salicornia virginica-Jaumea carnosa Association (4527) Note: Two phases occur: one with lesser presence of pickleweed and one with greater presence of pickleweed. Distichlis spicata-Jaumea carnosa Phase (4514) Salicornia virginica-Jaumea carnosa-Distichlis spicata Phase (4527)

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III.A.5. Salicornia virginica dominates with Frankenia salina as a constant associate. III.A.5.a. Frankenia salina is > 1% and constant along with Salicornia virginica. Other species may occur as subdominants. Salicornia virginica-Frankenia salina Association (45201) Note: Included are three phases: one with consistent presence and subdominance of Batis maritima with the Frankenia salina, one with consistent presence and subdominance of Suaeda taxifolia with the Frankenia salina, and one with Suaeda taxifolia higher in cover than Frankenia salina. Salicornia virginica-Frankenia salina-Batis maritima Phase (4526) Salicornia virginica-Frankenia salina-Suaeda taxifolia (synonym Suaeda californica) Phase (4524) Salicornia virginica-Suaeda taxifolia (synonym Suaeda californica) Phase (45201)

III.A.6. Salicornia virginica occurs with the nonnative black mustard, usually at the edge of the marsh in slightly elevated areas. Salicornia virginica-Brassica nigra Association (4529) III.B. Salt marsh vegetation dominated by the perennial forb Frankenia salina, usually mixed with other saline forbs and grasses. Frankenia salina Alliance (4550) III.B.1. Frankenia salina associates with the herbs Limonium californicum and Salicornia spp. and the native salt-tolerant grass Monanthochloe littoralis. Frankenia salina-Limonium californicum-Monanthochloe littoralisSalicornia spp. Association (4551) III.C. Salt marsh and coastal low-spreading, turf-forming salt grass is the dominant species and may have emergent low shrubs and taller perennial herbs. Distichlis spicata Alliance (4510) III.C.1. Salt grass associates with the sand-loving, coastal dune burweed. Distichlis spicata-Ambrosia chamissonis Association (4511) III.C.2. Salt grass associates with marsh jaumea (Jaumea carnosa) and pickleweed (Salicornia virginica). Distichlis spicata-Salicornia virginica-Jaumea carnosa Association (n/a) C1188-1/c

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Note: Two phases occur: one with lesser presence of pickleweed and one with greater presence of pickleweed. Distichlis spicata-Jaumea carnosa Phase Salicornia virginica-Jaumea carnosa-Distichlis spicata Phase

III.D. The low spreading and invasive succulent perennial sea fig (ice plant) is strongly dominant, usually on bluffs or dunes adjacent to the ocean. Mesembryanthemum spp.-Carpobrotus spp. SemiNatural Herbaceous Alliance (4720) III.D.1. Carpobrotus edulis (sea fig) is the dominant species. Carpobrotus edulis Association (4720) Group IV. Vegetation of rocky outcrops and cliffs usually dominated by low-matted spike moss, Selaginella bigelovii, or widely scattered but conspicuous individuals of buckwheat with spike moss. IV.A. Spike moss occurs as intermediate to dense mat with emergent California buckwheat and sometimes other shrubs and herbs. Selaginella bigelovii Alliance (4810) IV.A.1. Selaginella bigelovii dominates the low herb layer with emergent annual and perennial herbs, grasses, and a constant presence of California buckwheat at low cover. Selaginella bigelovii/Eriogonum fasciculatum Association (4811)

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Tree Overstory Vegetation Descriptions Alnus rhombifolia-Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest Association White Alder-California Sycamore Woodland/Forest Association Alnus rhombifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance White Alder Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1441

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to abrupt slopes with variable aspects at elevations between 7 and 202 m. It is codominated by Alnus rhombifolia and Platanus racemosa in the tree layer, Salix lasiolepis and Ceanothus spinosus in the understory shrub layer, and a variety of grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast and Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 7–202 m, mean 80 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 0–35 degrees, mean 14 degrees Topography (micro; macro): often concave; often bottom and lower slopes Litter Cover: range 25–80%, mean 46.7% Small Rock Cover: range 0–30%, mean 13.6% Large Rock Cover: range 0–28%, mean 11.6% Bare Ground: range 7–30%, mean 15% Parent Material: depositional or igneous Soil Texture: sand Vegetation Description: Stands of Alnus rhombifolia-Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest form an open to intermittent tree layer (31–55%, mean 39.7%) with conifers at 0–15 m tall and hardwoods at 5–15 m tall, a sparse to open shrub layer (1–12%, mean 6.7%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse to intermittent herbaceous layer (0–46%, mean 9.7%) at 0–5 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 40–75%, mean cover is 53%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Alnus rhombifolia and Platanus racemosa, and Quercus agrifolia and Umbellularia californica are frequently included in this layer at lower cover. The shrub layer is sparse to open and occasionally includes Salix lasiolepis and Ceanothus spinosus. Malosma laurina and Baccharis salicifolia may also be present in low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and includes a variety of forbs and grasses such as Piptatherum miliaceum, Cyperus sp., Euphorbia terracina, Rubus ursinus, Bromus diandrus, Arundo donax, Vinca major, Foeniculum vulgare, Artemisia douglasiana, and Brassica nigra.

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Alnus rhombifolia-Platanus racemosa Association Layer Code Tree Overstory ALRH2-T PLRA QUAG-T UMCA-T JUCA-T Tree Understory JUCA-M Shrub SALA6-M CESP MALA6 BASA4 TODI RICO3 ENCA ERCI5 HEAR5 Herb PIMI3 CYPER EUTE10 RUUR BRDI3 ARDO4 VIMA FOVU ARDO3 BRNI

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Alnus rhombifolia Platanus racemosa Quercus agrifolia Umbellularia californica Juglans californica

100 17.1 3 100 13 5 67 4.7 1 67 1.3 1 22 0.5 0.2

35 X X 25 X X 17 3 4

Juglans californica

22

0.2

0.2

2

Salix lasiolepis Ceanothus spinosus Malosma laurina Baccharis salicifolia Toxicodendron diversilobum Ricinus communis Encelia californica Eriogonum cinereum Heteromeles arbutifolia

44 44 33 33 22 22 22 22 22

1.2 0.7 1.4 0.8 0.4 0.1 0.01 0.01 0.01

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

6 3 12 5 3 1 0.2 0.2 0.2

Piptatherum miliaceum Cyperus Euphorbia terracina Rubus ursinus Bromus diandrus Arundo donax Vinca major Foeniculum vulgare Artemisia douglasiana Brassica nigra

44 33 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22

1.4 0.3 1 0.8 0.6 0.5 0.5 0.3 0.2 0.01

0.2 0.2 2 2 0.2 0.2 0.2 1 0.2 0.2

4 2 7 5 5 4 4 2 2 0.2

X

X X X X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Baccharis plummerae was found in 1 of 9 surveys of this plant community, which is assumed to be the rare subspecies B. p. subsp. plummerae. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-1-3. Global rank is G3T3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 4 of 9 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Piptatherum miliaceum, Euphorbia terracina, Bromus diandrus, Arundo donax, Vinca major, Foeniculum vulgare, Ricinus communis, Brassica nigra, Tropaeolum majus, Hedera helix, Raphanus sativus, Conium maculatum, Rumex crispus, Centaurea melitensis, Cirsium vulgare, Malva parviflora, Melilotus albus, Nicotiana glauca, Phoenix canariensis, Rorippa nasturtium-

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aquaticum, Salsola tragus, Senecio mikanioides, Spartium junceum Samples Used in Description: (n = 9) rap0384, rap1482, rap2168, rap2206m, rap2457rlv, rap2569, rap2605, rap2650, rap2760 Comments: Alnus rhombifolia and Platanus racemosa co-occur throughout much of the mountainous and hilly parts of south coastal California. Stands in the SAMO study area are restricted to permanently flowing creeks mostly in the coastal strip. Phases: None COMMON NAME

PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

White Alder-California Sycamore Woodland/Forest Association Southern Sycamore-Alder Riparian Woodland (Holland 1996) Forest Deciduous forest Cold-deciduous forest Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous forest Temporarily flooded cold-deciduous forest Alnus rhombifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

SYNONYM

Global Description Distribution: This association is known from the Santa Monica Mountains region and western Riverside County, though it may be found in other regions in southern California with additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: This association occurs along riparian corridors of concave creek bottoms to lower slopes that are gentle to abrupt. It is known to occur near the coast in southern California (Ventura County) and inland within the peninsular range (western Riverside County) at elevations usually below 1800 m. Vegetation Description: Based on data from western Riverside County, the following information can augment the local description above. In the Alnus rhombifolia-Platanus racemosa Association, both tree species are codominant and may be regenerating in the understory. Other trees may also be

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codominant, including Quercus agrifolia and Salix laevigata, and a variety of herb species may be present in this association. Comments: This association is likely to occur in other parts of south coastal California. To date, an analogous association has been recently described from western Riverside County, and a similar association of Alnus rhombifolia-Platanus racemosa-Quercus chrysolepis has been recently described from inland San Diego County. In addition, a similar association of Alnus rhombifoliaSalix laevigata-Platanus racemosa is described in lower montane of the southern Sierra Nevada below 1,000 m. Other than these three trees listed in this association, there is moderate to low constancy and cover of Fraxinus latifolia, Quercus spp., Salix lasiolepis, Toxicodendron diversilobum, and Rubus ursinus. References: Evens and San 2005, Holland 1986, Klein and Evens 2005, Potter 2003

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Eucalyptus Woodland/Forest Alliance Eucalyptus Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 9510

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest alliance occurs on gentle to steep slopes with variable aspects at low elevations between 31 and 341 m. The tree layer is open to dense, and it is mainly dominated by Eucalyptus spp. Both shrub and herb layers are sparse to open, and they may include Malosma laurina and Heteromeles arbutifolia as shrubs and Hirschfeldia incana and annual grasses. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains., Western Fog Zone, Eastern Urban, and Dry Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 31–341 m, mean 202.6 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–35 degrees, mean 18.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable, though more concave; mainly bottom Litter Cover: range 65–75%, mean 70% Small Rock Cover: range 2–5%, mean 3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–8%, mean 3.3% Bare Ground: range 8–25%, mean 14.3% Parent Material: variable sediments, though more often igneous and sedimentary Soil Texture: no data Vegetation Description: Stands of the Eucalyptus Woodland/Forest Alliance form an open to continuous tree layer (15–67% cover, mean 40.9%) with conifers at 0–15 m tall and hardwoods at 5–50 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse to open and may occur in two different strata at (0–15%, mean 3%), with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is sparse to open (0–20%, mean 5.4%) at 0–0.5 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 28–68%, mean cover is 49.4%. In this alliance, the tree layer is dominated by Eucalyptus spp. Quercus agrifolia, Platanus racemosa, and Pinus (introduced species) are occasionally included in this layer at low cover. Eucalyptus spp. sometimes regenerates in the understory. The shrub tree layer is open and may include Malosma laurina and Heteromeles arbutifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is usually simple and open, and it may include Hirschfeldia incana and annual grasses.

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Eucalyptus Alliance Layer Code Tree Overstory EUCAL-T QUAG-T PLRA PINUS Tree Understory EUCAL-M Shrub MALA6 HEAR5 BAPI Herb UNGR HIIN3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Eucalyptus Quercus agrifolia Platanus racemosa Pinus

89 33 33 33

31.7 0.7 0.5 0.4

15.0 0.2 0.2 0.2

65.0 X X X 4.0 2.0 2.0

Eucalyptus

22

0.4

2.0

2.0

Malosma laurina Heteromeles arbutifolia Baccharis pilularis

44 44 22

1.8 0.4 0.0

0.2 15.0 0.2 2.5 0.2 0.2

Unknown annual grass Hirschfeldia incana

22 22

2.4 0.2

2.0 20.0 1.0 1.0

X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Eucalyptus, Hirschfeldia incana, Vinca major, Rosmarinus officinalis, Schinus molle, Piptatherum miliaceum, Nerium oleander, Robinia, Brassica nigra, Cortaderia, Dactylis glomerata, Foeniculum vulgare, Lactuca serriola, Spartium junceum Samples Used in Description: (n = 9) AA0417, AA0554cc, AA0614, AA0721, AA0832, rap0053, rap0710, rap2215, rap2237 Comments: Most stands seen appear to have originated from plantings, and regeneration around stands is taking place in some cases. However, some stands appear to be established through naturalization as well (Charlie Hohn, personal communication). Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE

Eucalyptus Alliance None I-Forest I.A.-Evergreen forest I.A.6.-Winter-rain broad-leaved evergreen sclerophyllous forest I.A.6.N.-Natural/Seminatural winter-rain broadleaved evergreen sclerophyllous forest I.A.6.N.b.-Lowland or submontane winter-rain evergreen sclerophyllous forest Eucalyptus Woodland/Forest Alliance

CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

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ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

Nonnative

Global Description Distribution: Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: Stands occur in various settings, usually the result of plantings. Most stands in California are below 1,000 m in elevation and are west of the Cascade-Sierra Divide. Vegetation Description: Stands are strongly dominated by Eucalyptus spp. Coastal stands tend to develop a seminatural understory with Toxicodendron diversilobum and other native shade-tolerant shrubs. Comments: This alliance is composed of vegetation types that are dominated by species not native to the western United States. Nine species of Eucalyptus are included in this alliance in California; none of them are native to North America. A description can be developed in the future for this alliance should it prove useful to do so. References: Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Juglans californica/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association California Walnut/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association Juglans californica Woodland/Forest Alliance California Walnut Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1312

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on somewhat steep to steep slopes with variable aspects at low elevations between 119 and 461 m. It is dominated by Juglans californica in the tree layer and a variety of forbs and grasses in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland, Eastern Urban, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 119–461 m, mean 310 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 15–38 degrees, mean 25 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable but often undulating; lower to top slopes Litter Cover: range 75–85%, mean 80% Small Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 5.4% Large Rock Cover: range 0–2%, mean 0.8% Bare Ground: range 2–30%, mean 15% Parent Material: often sedimentary, occasionally igneous or depositional Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam to fine clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Juglans californica/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest form a sparse to intermittent tree layer (5–45%, mean 21.5%) with hardwoods at 2–10 m tall, a sparse to open shrub layer (0–15%, mean 5.7%) at 0–10 m tall, and an open to intermittent herbaceous layer (12–45%, mean 30.8%) at 0–1m tall. Total vegetation cover is 37–65%, mean cover is 54.9%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Juglans californica. Quercus agrifolia is occasionally included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse to open and occasionally includes Artemisia californica, Malosma laurina, and Toxicodendron diversilobum. The herbaceous layer is diverse and includes Brassica nigra, Leymus condensatus, Bromus sp., Bromus diandrus, Marah macrocarpus, Centaurea melitensis, Galium aparine, Marrubium vulgare, and a variety of other native and nonnative species.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Juglans californica/Annual Grass-Herb Association Layer Code Tree Overstory JUCA-T QUAG-T Shrub ARCA11 MALA6 TODI HEAR5 SALE3 HASQ2 Herb BRNI LECO12 BROMU BRDI3 MAMA8 CEME2 GAAP2 MAVU

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Juglans californica Quercus agrifolia

100 18.5 5 50 1.4 0.2

45 X X 6

Artemisia californica Malosma laurina Toxicodendron diversilobum Heteromeles arbutifolia Salvia leucophylla Hazardia squarrosa

44 44 44 31 25 25

0.7 0.6 0.3 1.3 1 0.8

0.2 0.2 0.2 2.5 0.2 0.2

2.5 3 3 6 10 7

Brassica nigra Leymus condensatus Bromus Bromus diandrus Marah macrocarpus Centaurea melitensis Galium aparine Marrubium vulgare

56 50 38 31 31 31 25 25

3.2 1.3 7.6 6.3 0.3 0.3 0.8 0.1

0.2 1 10 4 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

25 4 35 35 4 2.5 6 0.2

X

X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 16 of 16 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Centaurea melitensis, Galium aparine, Marrubium vulgare, Erodium, Stellaria media, Brassica, Hirschfeldia incana, Avena fatua, Avena barbata, Cirsium vulgare, Malva parviflora, Urtica urens, Bromus hordeaceus, Carduus pycnocephalus, Lactuca serriola, Nicotiana glauca Samples Used in Description: (n = 16) AA0108cc, AA0151cc, AA0313cc, AA0321cc, AA0612, AA0932, AA0991, rap0619, rap0621, rap0702, rap0703, rap1072, rap1506m, rap1950, rap2082, rap2608 Comments: As a general note, cover values of Juglans are likely to average higher than recorded because some sampling was done during periods when the leaves of this deciduous species were largely absent. This type is often found in disturbed and urban settings. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS

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California Walnut/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association None Woodland

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Juglans californica Woodland/Forest Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This association is likely to be restricted to the Santa Monica Mountains and other parts of the western Los Angeles Basin of California. Higher-quality stands have a relatively high native to nonnative understory species component. References: Holland 1986

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103

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Juglans californica/Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus Woodland/Forest Association California Walnut/California Sagebrush/Giant Wild Rye Woodland/Forest Association Juglans californica Woodland/Forest Alliance California Walnut Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1317

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to steep slopes with variable aspects at low elevations between 41 and 500 m. It is dominated by Juglans californica in the tree layer, Artemisia californica in the understory shrub layer, and Leymus condensatus in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Eastern Urban, Immediate Coast, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Hills Inland, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 41–500 m, mean 311.5 m Aspect: variable, but often northeast or northwest Slope: range 2–42 degrees, mean 29.5 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable but often undulating or convex; lower to top slopes Litter Cover: range 2–40%, mean 21% Small Rock Cover: range 15–20%, mean 16% Large Rock Cover: range 0–8%, mean 2.2% Bare Ground: range 20–40%, mean 29% Parent Material: often sedimentary, occasionally depositional or igneous Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Juglans californica/Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus Woodland/Forest form a sparse to intermittent tree layer (5–36%, mean 20.3%) with hardwoods at 2–10 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (5–47%, mean 28.2%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (0–30%, mean 7.5%) at 0–2 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 40–70%, mean cover is 53.5%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Juglans californica. Quercus agrifolia and Platanus racemosa are occasionally included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and often includes Artemisia californica. Frequently, Salvia leucophylla, Toxicodendron diversilobum, and Malosma laurina are also included. A variety of other shrubs is also present in lower cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and is dominated by Leymus condensatus. Other herbs include Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, and a variety of native and nonnative grasses and forbs.

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104

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Juglans californica/Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus Layer Code Tree Overstory JUCA-T QUAG-T Tree Understory JUCA-M Shrub ARCA11 SALE3 TODI MALA6 MAFA MIAU HEAR5 SAME5 CESP BAPI SAME3 Herb LECO12 CEME2 HIIN3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Juglans californica Quercus agrifolia

79 29

15.1 0.6

1 1

35 X X 3

Juglans californica

29

4.3

2

35

Artemisia californica Salvia leucophylla Toxicodendron diversilobum Malosma laurina Malacothamnus fasciculatus Mimulus aurantiacus Heteromeles arbutifolia Sambucus mexicana Ceanothus spinosus Baccharis pilularis Salvia mellifera

96 63 50 50 42 38 29 29 25 21 21

6.3 6.5 3.2 1 2.3 2.1 0.6 0.3 0.9 1.1 0.2

2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

30 28 25 5 15 18 4 2.5 9 15 2.5

Leymus condensatus Centaurea melitensis Hirschfeldia incana

83 21 21

5.3 0.5 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2

30 X X 5 X 1 X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 24 of 24 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Bromus hordeaceus, Nicotiana glauca, Melilotus indicus, Cortaderia, Medicago polymorpha, Bromus madritensis, Bromus tectorum, Avena barbata, Avena fatua, Erodium cicutarium, Lactuca serriola Samples Used in Description: (n = 24) AA0115cc, AA0286cc, AA0955, AA1095, AA1176, AA1177, rap1191, rap1369m, rap1373m, rap1511, rap1662m, rap1706, rap1943, rap1952, rap1953, rap2083, rap2204, rap2295, rap2451, rap2452, rap2459rlv, rap2617, rap2725, rap2731 Comments: This association is one of the most common types of California walnut woodland in the project zone. It is the typical walnut/coastal sage association locally. As a general note, cover values of Juglans are likely to average higher than recorded because some sampling was done during periods when the leaves of this deciduous species were largely absent.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: None COMMON NAME

California Walnut/California Sagebrush/Giant Wild Rye Woodland/Forest Association SYNONYM California Walnut Woodland (Holland 1986) PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS Woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS Deciduous woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP Cold-deciduous woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland FORMATION Cold-deciduous woodland ALLIANCE Juglans californica Woodland/Forest Alliance CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL: 1 ECOLOGICAL REGIONS:

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK:

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Holland 1986

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106

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Juglans californica/Ceanothus spinosus Woodland/Forest Association California Walnut/Greenbark Ceanothus Woodland/Forest Association Juglans californica Woodland/Forest Alliance California Walnut Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1315

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on somewhat steep to steep slopes, usually on northeast aspects, at low elevations between 193 and 616 m. It is dominated by Juglans californica in the tree layer, Ceanothus spinosus in the understory shrub layer, and a mixture of grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Eastern Urban, Immediate Coast, and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 193–616 m, mean 407.5 m Aspect: variable but often northeast Slope: range 15–42 degrees, mean 29.8 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable but often undulating; bottom to upper slopes Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: range 5–35%, mean 16.7% Large Rock Cover: range 0–2%, mean 1% Bare Ground: range 13–55%, mean 27.7% Parent Material: variable but more often sedimentary Soil Texture: medium loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Juglans californica/Ceanothus spinosus Woodland/Forest form a sparse to intermittent tree layer (7–33%, mean 15.4%) with hardwoods at 2–10 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (9–50%, mean 37.2%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (0–12%, mean 2.2%) at 0–2 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 38–66%, mean cover is 54.6%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Juglans californica. Quercus agrifolia is frequently included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and is dominated by Ceanothus spinosus, though Heteromeles arbutifolia is frequently present in lower cover. Occasionally, Rhus ovata, Malosma laurina, Mimulus aurantiacus, Ceanothus megacarpus, and Sambucus mexicana are also included. The herbaceous layer is simple and composed of a mixture of grass and forb species in low cover such as Leymus condensatus, Marah macrocarpus, and Melica imperfecta.

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107

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Juglans californica/Ceanothus spinosus Association Layer Code Tree Overstory JUCA-T QUAG-T Tree Understory JUCA-M Shrub CESP HEAR5 RHOV MALA6 MIAU CEME SAME5 PRIL CEBE3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Juglans californica Quercus agrifolia

83 50

12 0.8

2 0.2

Juglans californica

22

1.8

6

Ceanothus spinosus Heteromeles arbutifolia Rhus ovata Malosma laurina Mimulus aurantiacus Ceanothus megacarpus Sambucus mexicana Prunus ilicifolia Cercocarpus betuloides

100 27.9 7 72 3 0.2 44 1.4 1 39 0.5 0.2 33 0.7 0.2 33 0.5 0.2 33 0.3 0.2 22 0.9 2 22 0.5 0.2

30 X X 3 13 50 X X 15 13 4 5 4 2 6 4

Other Noteworthy Species: Baccharis plummerae was found in 1 of 18 surveys of this plant community, which is assumed to be the rare subspecies B. p. subsp. plummerae. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-1-3. Global rank is G3T3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 18 of 18 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Nicotiana glauca, Senecio mikanioides, Bromus diandrus, Bromus hordeaceus, Avena, Euphorbia terracina, Foeniculum vulgare Samples Used in Description: (n = 18) AA0472cc, AA0601, AA0608, AA0671, AA1142, AA1168, AA1206, rap0476, rap0491, rap1174m, rap1742, rap2475, rap2516, rap2576, rap2590m, rap2626, rap2639, rap2925 Comments: This California walnut association typically occurs adjacent to other north-facing slope scrubs and is probably more similar to a chaparral type with emergent walnut. It has a small proportion of Quercus agrifolia associated with it about half the time. Taken together, either understory or overstory Juglans californica occurs at 100% frequency, and cover values of Juglans are likely to average higher than recorded because some sampling was done during periods when the leaves of this deciduous species were largely absent.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Walnut/Greenbark Ceanothus Woodland/Forest Association California Walnut Woodland (Holland 1986) Woodland Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Juglans californica Woodland/Forest Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Holland 1986

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109

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Juglans californica/Heteromeles arbutifolia Woodland/Forest Association California Walnut/Toyon Woodland/Forest Association Juglans californica Woodland/Forest Alliance California Walnut Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 6312

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on somewhat steep to steep slopes with variable aspects (though often northeast facing) at elevations between 237 and 514 m. It is dominated by Juglans californica in the tree layer and Heteromeles arbutifolia in the understory shrub layer. A variety of grass and forbs occurs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Eastern Urban, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, and Dry Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 237–514 m, mean 327.1 m Aspect: variable, but often northeast or northwest Slope: range 15–40 degrees, mean 28 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable but often undulating; bottom to top slopes Litter Cover: 75% Small Rock Cover: range 5–15%, mean 6.8% Large Rock Cover: range 0–2%, mean 0.2% Bare Ground: range 5–25%, mean 16.3% Parent Material: more often sedimentary, occasionally igneous or metamorphic Soil Texture: moderately fine silty clay loam to fine clay but more often moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Juglans californica/Heteromeles arbutifolia Woodland/Forest form a sparse to intermittent tree layer (6–58%, mean 21.6%) with conifers at 0–15 m tall and hardwoods at 2–15 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (0–40%, mean 24.4%) at 0–10 m tall, and a sparse to intermittent herbaceous layer (0–37%, mean 8.2%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 25–68%, mean cover is 52.5%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Juglans californica. Quercus agrifolia is frequently included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and is dominated by Heteromeles arbutifolia although Rhus ovata and Malosma laurina are frequently present. Occasionally, Ceanothus spinosus, Quercus berberidifolia, Sambucus mexicana, Salvia mellifera, and Artemisia californica are also included. The herbaceous layer is diverse and includes a variety of grasses and forbs in low cover such as Brassica nigra, Marah macrocarpus, Leymus condensatus, and Marrubium vulgare.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Juglans californica/Heteromeles arbutifolia Association Layer Code Tree Overstory JUCA-T QUAG-T Shrub HEAR5 RHOV MALA6 CESP QUBE5 SAME5 SAME3 ARCA11 RISP TODI RHIL ENCA MIAU LONIC Herb BRNI MAMA8 LECO12 MAVU

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Juglans californica Quercus agrifolia

100 15.6 5 80 3.6 0.2

45 X X 15 X

Heteromeles arbutifolia Rhus ovata Malosma laurina Ceanothus spinosus Quercus berberidifolia Sambucus mexicana Salvia mellifera Artemisia californica Ribes speciosum Toxicodendron diversilobum Rhamnus ilicifolia Encelia californica Mimulus aurantiacus Lonicera

95 65 55 45 30 30 30 30 25 25 25 20 20 20

10.1 3.7 1.3 1.3 1.4 0.7 0.3 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.2 2.1 0.9 0.4

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

33 X X 35 4 6 12 12 2 2.5 3 3 2.5 26 12 3

Brassica nigra Marah macrocarpus Leymus condensatus Marrubium vulgare

35 30 20 20

0.4 0.2 0.6 0.1

0.2 0.2 1 0.2

4 2.5 5 2

X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 20 of 20 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Marrubium vulgare, Senecio mikanioides, Bromus diandrus, Stellaria media, Medicago polymorpha, Schinus molle, Erodium, Nicotiana glauca, Carduus pycnocephalus, Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Ageratina adenophora, Galium aparine, Salsola tragus Samples Used in Description: (n = 20) AA0023cc, AA0109cc, AA0154cc, AA0158cc, AA0411, AA0588, AA0605, AA0929, rap0606, rap0618, rap0632, rap0701m, rap0706, rap0711, rap0715, rap0743m, rap0752m, rap2502, rap2504, rap2588 Comments: Compared to the Juglans californica/Ceanothus spinosus Association, this association has a higher cover and constancy of Quercus agrifolia and Heteromeles arbutifolia. Both of these associations tend to occur on northeast-facing exposures and on disturbed sights. H. arbutifolia is often as tall as the walnut.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

As a general note, cover values of Juglans are likely to average higher than recorded because some sampling was done during periods when the leaves of this deciduous species were largely absent. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Walnut/Toyon Woodland/Forest Association California Walnut Woodland (Holland 1986) Woodland Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Juglans californica Woodland/Forest Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS:

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Holland 1986

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112

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Juglans californica/Malosma laurina Woodland/Forest Association California Walnut/Laurel Sumac Woodland/Forest Association Juglans californica Woodland/Forest Alliance California Walnut Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1314

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to very steep slopes on all aspects at low elevations between 20 and 460 m. It is dominated by Juglans californica in the tree layer, Malosma laurina in the understory shrub layer, and a variety of grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Eastern Urban, and Dry Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 20–460 m, mean 252.7 m Aspect: all aspects but often northeast Slope: range 2–50 degrees, mean 20.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable; bottom to top slopes Litter Cover: 55% Small Rock Cover: range 5–30%, mean 19.3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–2%, mean 1% Bare Ground: range 12–30%, mean 21.8% Parent Material: more often sedimentary, occasionally igneous or depositional Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy clay loam to fine clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Juglans californica/Malosma laurina Woodland/Forest form a sparse to intermittent tree layer (4–40%, mean 14.3%) with hardwoods at 0–15 m tall, an open to intermittent shrub layer (10–55%, mean 27.8%) at 0.5–5 m tall, and a sparse to intermittent herbaceous layer (0–41%, mean 10.9%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 40–62%, mean cover is 51.2%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Juglans californica. Quercus agrifolia and Platanus racemosa are occasionally found in lower cover in this layer. The open to intermittent shrub layer is dominated by Malosma laurina. Frequently, Artemisia californica, Heteromeles arbutifolia, and Malacothamnus fasciculatus are found in lower cover in this layer. A variety of other shrubs is also included in this layer. The herbaceous layer is diverse and includes Leymus condensatus, Bromus sp., Avena sp., Erodium sp., Medicago polymorpha, and Marah macrocarpus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Juglans californica/Malosma laurina Association Layer Code Tree Overstory JUCA-T QUAG-T PLRA Tree Understory JUCA-M Shrub MALA6 ARCA11 HEAR5 MAFA SALE3 ERCI5 TODI SAME5 MIAU KECO Herb LECO12 BROMU AVENA ERODI MEPO3 MAMA8

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Juglans californica Quercus agrifolia Platanus racemosa

75 42 25

10.4 1.1 0.5

5 1 1

40 X X 5 3

Juglans californica

33

3.3

7

15

Malosma laurina Artemisia californica Heteromeles arbutifolia Malacothamnus fasciculatus Salvia leucophylla Eriogonum cinereum Toxicodendron diversilobum Sambucus mexicana Mimulus aurantiacus Keckiella cordifolia

100 14.8 6 58 1.2 0.2 58 1.1 0.2 50 3.8 0.2 33 0.8 0.2 33 0.6 0.2 33 0.5 0.2 25 0.7 0.2 25 0.6 2 25 0.2 0.2

25 X X 8 3 15 4 4 5 8 3 1

Leymus condensatus Bromus Avena Erodium Medicago polymorpha Marah macrocarpus

58 25 25 25 25 25

3 40 17 5 2 0.2

0.8 4.8 1.6 0.4 0.2 0.1

0.2 2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 12 of 12 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as RarE. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Avena, Erodium, Medicago polymorpha, Bromus diandrus, Bromus hordeaceus, Bromus madritensis, Centaurea melitensis, Nicotiana glauca, Brassica, Brassica nigra, Pennisetum setaceum, Hirschfeldia incana, Euphorbia terracina, Nerium oleander, Stellaria media, Marrubium vulgare, Melilotus indicus, Ricinus communis, Schinus molle, Silybum marianum Samples Used in Description: (n = 12) AA0015cc, AA0183cc, rap0029, rap0170, rap0617, rap0719, rap1079, rap1141, rap1843, rap2081, rap2655, rap2767 Comments: This association is widespread in the Santa Monica Mountains. It tends to occur on a wider range of aspects than most other associations and is the only association in this alliance that has a significant cover of Malosma laurina.

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As a general note, cover values of Juglans are likely to average higher than recorded because some sampling was done during periods when the leaves of this deciduous species were largely absent. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

California Walnut/Laurel Sumac Woodland/Forest Association California Walnut Woodland (Holland 1986) Woodland Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Juglans californica Woodland/Forest Alliance 1 261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Holland 1986, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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115

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Platanus racemosa South Coast Intermittent Stream Woodland/Forest Association California Sycamore South Coast Intermittent Stream Woodland/Forest Association Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest Alliance California Sycamore Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 6451

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to somewhat steep slopes with variable aspects at low elevations between 134 and 460 m. It is dominated by Platanus racemosa in the tree layer. The shrub and herbaceous layers are open. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Dry Inland, Eastern Urban, and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 134–460 m, mean 325 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–15 degrees, mean 10.5 degrees Topography (micro; macro): concave or flat; bottom to mid slopes Litter Cover: 55% Small Rock Cover: range 3–8%, mean 5.5% Large Rock Cover: range 2–5%, mean 3.5% Bare Ground: range 2–15%, mean 8.5% Parent Material: variable Soil Texture: moderately fine silty clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest form an open to intermittent tree layer (15–59%, mean 37.3%) with hardwoods at 5–15 m tall, a sparse to open shrub layer (0–13%, mean 6.8%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse herbaceous layer (0–8%, mean 2.2%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 28–60%, mean cover is 46.5%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Platanus racemosa. Juglans californica is occasionally included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse to open and includes Toxicodendron diversilobum, Ceanothus spinosus, and Heteromeles arbutifolia in low cover. Various other shrubs also contribute to low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and most often includes Leymus condensatus. Other herbs occasionally include Artemisia douglasiana and Rubus ursinus.

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Platanus racemosa South Coast Intermittent Stream Association Layer Code Tree Overstory PLRA JUCA-T Tree Understory JUCA-M Shrub TODI CESP HEAR5 MIAU RHOV SAME3 Herb LECO12 ARDO3 RUUR

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Platanus racemosa Juglans californica

100 33.2 15 33 1.6 2.5

55 X X 7

Juglans californica

33

2.4

7

7.5

Toxicodendron diversilobum Ceanothus spinosus Heteromeles arbutifolia Mimulus aurantiacus Rhus ovata Salvia mellifera

67 50 50 33 33 33

1.6 1.9 1.5 0.6 0.1 0.1

0.2 2 0.2 1 0.2 0.2

6 7.5 6 2.5 0.2 0.2

Leymus condensatus Artemisia douglasiana Rubus ursinus

50 33 33

0.8 0.4 0.1

1 0.2 0.2

2.5 X 2.5 0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 3 of 6 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Woodwardia fimbriata was found in 1 of 6 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Locally Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List none, CNPS R-E-D Code is 0-0-0. Global rank is none, and state rank is none. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Ricinus communis, Schinus molle, Nicotiana glauca, Piptatherum miliaceum Samples Used in Description: (n = 6) AA0287cc, AA0388cc, AA0789, AA0837, rap0350, rap2250 Comments: This is the most simple floristically of the four local California sycamore associations. It is most similar to the Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia South Coast Association but lacks the oak. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP

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California Sycamore South Coast Intermittent Stream Woodland/Forest Association None Woodland Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland

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FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Cold-deciduous woodland Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. It is likely to occur in other parts of southern coastal California and adjacent Baja California, Mexico. Nations: United States, Mexico (probable) States or Provinces: CA, Baja California Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Platanus racemosa/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association California Sycamore/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest Alliance California Sycamore Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1456

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on flat to gentle slopes at low elevations between 34 and 140 m. It consists of Platanus racemosa dominating in the tree layer and Bromus diandrus dominating in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone and Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 34–140 m, mean 77 m Aspect: flat Slope: range 0–2 degrees, mean 1.2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat; bottom to lower slopes Litter Cover: range 35–35%, mean 35% Small Rock Cover: range 0–17%, mean 7.3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–3%, mean 0.8% Bare Ground: range 4–30%, mean 14.8% Parent Material: depositional Soil Texture: silt to fine sandy clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Platanus racemosa/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest form a sparse to open tree layer (6–22%, mean 13.2%) with conifers at 0–15 m tall and hardwoods at 10–20 m tall, a sparse shrub layer (0–2%, mean 0.4%) at 0–5 m tall, and an open to intermittent herbaceous layer (17–64%, mean 42.8%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 38–68%, mean cover is 53.2%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Platanus racemosa. The shrub layer is sparse and often includes Malacothamnus fasciculatus, while Baccharis pilularis, Baccharis salicifolia, Salix lasiolepis, and Spartium junceum are occasionally included at very low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse yet often dominated by nonnative species such as Bromus diandrus, Marrubium vulgare, Brassica nigra, and Cirsium vulgare. Other herbs occasionally occurring at low cover include Ambrosia sp., Arundo donax, Piptatherum miliaceum, Foeniculum vulgare, and Cynodon dactylon.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Platanus racemosa/Annual Grass-Herb Association Layer Code Tree Overstory PLRA CALOC2 POPUL QUAG-T Tree Understory QUAG-M Shrub MAFA BAPI BASA4 SALA6-M SPJU2 ARCA11 LEPID MALA6 NIGL RHOV RIBES RIMA SAEX SAME5 Herb MAVU BRDI3 BRNI CIVU AMBRO ARDO4 CYDA FOVU PIMI3 ARDO3 AVENA DAIN2 HEGR7 POACXX BROMU AMAC2 SIMA3 VISA BRHO2 HIIN3 AMPS AVFA BRASS2

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Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Platanus racemosa Calocedrus Populus Quercus agrifolia

100 20 20 20

12.8 6 0.01 0.2 0.01 0.2 0.01 0.2

20 X X 0.2 X 0.2 0.2

Quercus agrifolia

20

0.01 0.2

0.2

Malacothamnus fasciculatus Baccharis pilularis Baccharis salicifolia Salix lasiolepis Spartium junceum Artemisia californica Lepidium Malosma laurina Nicotiana glauca Rhus ovata Ribes Ribes malvaceum Salix exigua Sambucus mexicana

60 40 40 40 40 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20

0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Marrubium vulgare Bromus diandrus Brassica nigra Cirsium vulgare Ambrosia Arundo donax Cynodon dactylon Foeniculum vulgare Piptatherum miliaceum Artemisia douglasiana Avena Datura inoxia Heterotheca grandiflora Poaceae Bromus Ambrosia acanthicarpa Silybum marianum Vicia sativa Bromus hordeaceus Hirschfeldia incana Ambrosia psilostachya Avena fatua Brassica

80 60 60 60 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20

0.2 31.2 1.6 0.3 1 0.4 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 3.2 2 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2 0.2 0.01 0.01 0.01

0.2 50 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 16 10 4 3 2 1 1 0.2 0.2 0.2

0.2 X X 55 X X 7 X 1 X 5 2 X 1 X 1 X 1 X 0.2 0.2 X 0.2 0.2 16 10 4 3 X 2 X 1 X 1 X 0.2 0.2 X 0.2 X

120

X

X

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

CAPY2 Carduus pycnocephalus 20 CEME2 Centaurea melitensis 20 CESO3 Centaurea solstitialis 20 ERSE3 Eremocarpus setigerus 20 Platanus racemosa/Annual Grass-Herb Association

0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01

Layer Code ERODI ERCI6 GNAPH LECO12 PHAQ RASA2 SOAS

Avg Min Max A C N 0.01 0.2 0.2 X 0.01 0.2 0.2 X 0.01 0.2 0.2 0.01 0.2 0.2 0.01 0.2 0.2 X 0.01 0.2 0.2 X 0.01 0.2 0.2 X

Species Name Erodium Erodium cicutarium Gnaphalium Leymus condensatus Phalaris aquatica Raphanus sativus Sonchus asper

Con 20 20 20 20 20 20 20

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Marrubium vulgare, Bromus diandrus, Brassica nigra, Cirsium vulgare, Arundo donax, Cynodon dactylon, Foeniculum vulgare, Piptatherum miliaceum, Avena, Spartium junceum, Silybum marianum, Vicia sativa, Bromus hordeaceus, Hirschfeldia incana, Avena fatua, Brassica, Carduus pycnocephalus, Centaurea melitensis, Centaurea solstitialis, Erodium, Erodium cicutarium, Nicotiana glauca, Phalaris aquatica, Raphanus sativus, Sonchus asper Samples Used in Description: (n = 5) rap0202, rap0204, rap0467, rap0495, rap2456rlv Comments: This association differs from other California sycamore associations locally by having a relatively high cover of Bromus diandrus and other nonnative annual grasses and native forbs without a significant shrub layer. This type is found on riparian terraces along the major drainages of the park. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Sycamore/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association Sycamore Alluvial Woodland (Holland 1986) Woodland Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This association resembles some stands that were classified as Sycamore Alluvial Woodland, a rare natural community of central California. References: Holland 1986, Keeler-Wolf et al. 1997, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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122

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia South Coast Woodland/Forest Association California Sycamore-Coast Live Oak South Coast Woodland/Forest Association Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest Alliance California Sycamore Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1452

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on moderately steep to steep slopes with variable aspects at low elevations between 166 and 480 m. It is codominated by Platanus racemosa and Quercus agrifolia in the tree layer, usually as a woodland. Heteromeles arbutifolia is characteristically present at low cover in the understory shrub layer, and a variety of grasses and forbs is in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Eastern Urban, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 166–480 m, mean 280 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 10–35 degrees, mean 16.9 degrees Topography (micro; macro): often concave; bottom to mid slopes Litter Cover: 75% Small Rock Cover: range 2–5%, mean 3.5% Large Rock Cover: range 1–2%, mean 1.5% Bare Ground: range 2–5%, mean 3.5% Parent Material: sedimentary or igneous Soil Texture: no data Vegetation Description: Stands of Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest form an open to intermittent tree layer (23–48%, mean 37.6%) with hardwoods at 5–15 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (0–35%, mean 13.4%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (0–14%, mean 3.6%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 40–85%, mean cover is 54.4%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Platanus racemosa and Quercus agrifolia. Juglans californica is frequently included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and often includes Heteromeles arbutifolia, Malosma laurina, and Ceanothus spinosus. Occasionally, Toxicodendron diversilobum, Ceanothus megacarpus, and Baccharis pilularis are also included. The herbaceous layer is sparse and includes Marrubium vulgare, Marah macrocarpus, and Stellaria media in low cover.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia South Coast Woodland Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T PLRA JUCA-T EUCAL-T PINUS Shrub HEAR5 MALA6 CESP TODI CEME BAPI BASA4 Herb MAMA8 MAVU

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Platanus racemosa Juglans californica Eucalyptus Pinus

100 16 2 100 15.1 8 50 2.8 1 25 0.4 0.2 25 0.3 0.2

25 X X 25 X X 10 3 X 2

Heteromeles arbutifolia Malosma laurina Ceanothus spinosus Toxicodendron diversilobum Ceanothus megacarpus Baccharis pilularis Baccharis salicifolia

75 63 63 38 38 25 25

2.9 3.5 2.5 0.8 0.1 0.4 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 1 0.2 1 0.2

12 15 7.5 3 0.2 2.5 0.2

Marah macrocarpus Marrubium vulgare

25 25

0.3 0.3

0.2 0.2

2.5 2.5

X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 5 of 8 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as RarE. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Marrubium vulgare, Stellaria media, Ageratina adenophora, Bromus diandrus, Carduus pycnocephalus, Cortaderia, Brassica nigra, Foeniculum vulgare, Nicotiana glauca, Rubus discolor Samples Used in Description: (n = 8) AA0051cc, AA0304cc, AA0753, rap0338m, rap0633, rap0728m, rap1071, rap2340 Comments: This association with California sycamore differs from the others in the Santa Monica Mountains by having a constant codominant presence of coast live oak, a minor herbaceous component, and moderate shrub cover composed of several species of nonriparian shrubs. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE

C1188-1/c

California Sycamore-Coast Live Oak South Coast Woodland/Forest Association None Woodland Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest Alliance

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CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This association is related to the Quercus agrifolia-Platanus racemosa/Toxicodendron diversilobum Association of western Riverside and San Diego counties. However, in that association Q. agrifolia is strongly dominant. References: Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005

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125

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia/Baccharis salicifolia/Artemisia douglasiana South Coast Woodland/Forest Association California Sycamore-Coast Live Oak/Mule Fat South Coast Woodland/Forest Association Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest Alliance California Sycamore Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1458

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on often flat to gentle and occasionally somewhat steep slopes at elevations between 0 and 414 m. While slopes are usually flat, the association may be somewhat steep with steepness on southeast or variable exposures. It is codominated by Platanus racemosa and Quercus agrifolia in the tree layer, Baccharis salicifolia in the understory shrub layer, and Piptatherum miliaceum is often in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Western Fog Zone, Immediate Coast, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Hills Inland, and Dry Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–414 m, mean 184.2 m Aspect: often flat, occasionally variable or southeast Slope: range 0–15 degrees, mean 3.2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): often flat, occasionally concave; bottom to lower slopes Litter Cover: range 15–75%, mean 55% Small Rock Cover: range 3–50%, mean 18.7% Large Rock Cover: range 0–40%, mean 6.3% Bare Ground: range 5–35%, mean 14.6% Parent Material: variable but more often depositional Soil Texture: coarse sand to fine sandy clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia/Baccharis salicifolia/Artemisia douglasiana Woodland/Forest form a sparse to intermittent tree layer (8–40%, mean 20.3%) with hardwoods at 5–20 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (1–36%, mean 16.7%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse to intermittent herbaceous layer (2–35%, mean 12.2%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 29–75%, mean cover is 45.3%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Platanus racemosa and Quercus agrifolia. Juglans californica is occasionally included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and is dominated by Baccharis salicifolia. Various other shrubs such as Toxicodendron diversilobum and Sambucus mexicana are occasionally included in low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and often includes Piptatherum miliaceum, Artemisia douglasiana, and Bromus diandrus. Other herbs include Hirschfeldia incana, Leymus condensatus, and Rubus ursinus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia/Baccharis salicifolia/Artemisia douglasiana South Coast Woodland Association Layer Code Tree Overstory PLRA QUAG-T JUCA-T Tree Understory QUAG-M Shrub BASA4 TODI SAME5 SAME3 MIAU MALA6 CESP ARCA11 NIGL ROCA2 MAFA BAPI BRCA3 Herb PIMI3 ARDO3 BRDI3 HIIN3 LECO12 RUUR AMPS FOVU BRNI

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Platanus racemosa Quercus agrifolia Juglans californica

100 13.1 3 79 4.4 0.2 37 1 0.2

30 X X 15 X 7.5

Quercus agrifolia

32

0.6

0.2

Baccharis salicifolia Toxicodendron diversilobum Sambucus mexicana Salvia mellifera Mimulus aurantiacus Malosma laurina Ceanothus spinosus Artemisia californica Nicotiana glauca Rosa californica Malacothamnus fasciculatus Baccharis pilularis Brickellia californica

100 37 32 26 26 26 26 26 26 21 21 21 21

7.2 0.5 0.4 0.9 0.8 0.7 0.4 0.4 0.1 0.3 0.3 0.2 0.1

1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

20 X X 3 4 10 6 9 3 3 1 X 6 2.5 3 1

Piptatherum miliaceum Artemisia douglasiana Bromus diandrus Hirschfeldia incana Leymus condensatus Rubus ursinus Ambrosia psilostachya Foeniculum vulgare Brassica nigra

79 68 58 42 37 32 26 26 21

3 3.4 3.5 0.4 0.5 0.3 0.2 0.1 0.01

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

12 10 30 3 5 2.5 1 1 0.2

5

X X X X

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 9 of 19 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Piptatherum miliaceum, Bromus diandrus, Hirschfeldia incana, Foeniculum vulgare, Nicotiana glauca, Brassica nigra, Carduus pycnocephalus, Marrubium vulgare, Bromus madritensis, Conium maculatum, Melilotus officinalis, Cirsium vulgare, Bromus hordeaceus, Anagallis arvensis, Centaurea melitensis, Erodium cicutarium, Silybum marianum, Sonchus asper, Arundo donax, Anthemis cotula, Melilotus albus, Urtica urens, Raphanus sativus, Senecio mikanioides, Melilotus indicus, Vicia villosa, Avena, Cynodon dactylon, Lactuca serriola, Oxalis pes-caprae, Plantago major, Ricinus communis, Rumex crispus, Sequoia sempervirens, Sonchus oleraceus, Veronica anagallis-aquatica, Vinca major

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Samples Used in Description: (n = 19) AA0064cc, AA0346, AA0517, AA0785, AA1013, rap0199m, rap0205, rap0445, rap0447, rap1425, rap1903, rap2435, rap2458rlv, rap2619, rap2637, rap2670, rap2689, rap2911, rap2924 Comments: This is the most widespread of the California sycamore associations in the study area, usually found in seasonal streambeds with high water fluctuation or in wide washes. In this association the sycamore dominates tree canopy with much lower cover of coast live oak. The understory is characterized by the riparian Baccharis salicifolia and may also include other riparian or semiriparian shrubs such as Rosa californica and Sambucus mexicana. The higher proportion of large and small surface rocks suggests a more active flooding regime than other California sycamore associations represented locally. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Sycamore-Coast Live Oak/Mule Fat South Coast Woodland/Forest Association None Woodland Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description.

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Comments: This association is likely to occur in other parts of south coastal California and is similar to the Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia Central Coast Association. References: Keeler-Wolf et al. 1997

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Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia-Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Association California Sycamore-Coast Live Oak-Arroyo Willow Woodland/Forest Association Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest Alliance California Sycamore Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 6452

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to steep slopes with variable aspects at elevations between 35 and 445 m. It is dominated by Platanus racemosa and Quercus agrifolia in the tree layer, Salix lasiolepis in the tree understory, Toxicodendron diversilobum and Salix lasiolepis in the shrub layer, and a variety of forbs and grasses in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Immediate Coast, Dry Inland, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 35–445 m, mean 246 m Aspect: variable but often flat Slope: range 2–35 degrees, mean 10.4 degrees Topography (micro; macro): often concave, rarely flat; bottom to upper slopes Litter Cover: range 15–70%, mean 42.6% Small Rock Cover: range 2–40%, mean 15.2% Large Rock Cover: range 1–45%, mean 12% Bare Ground: range 2–40%, mean 16.1% Parent Material: variable but more often sedimentary Soil Texture: silt to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia-Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest form an open to intermittent tree layer (12–59%, mean 35.9%) with hardwoods at 5–20 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (0–45%, mean 13.9%) at 0–10 m tall, and a sparse to intermittent herbaceous layer (0–37%, mean 5.8%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 30–70%, mean cover is 50.9%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Platanus racemosa and Quercus agrifolia. Umbellularia californica, Salix laevigata, and Juglans californica are occasionally included in this layer. Salix lasiolepis is dominant in the tree and shrub understory. The shrub layer is also dominated by Toxicodendron diversilobum. Occasionally, Baccharis salicifolia, Ceanothus spinosus, and Heteromeles arbutifolia are also included in the diverse shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is diverse and includes a variety of herbs such as Piptatherum miliaceum, Artemisia douglasiana, Carduus pycnocephalus, Typha sp., and Leymus condensatus.

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Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia-Salix lasiolepis Association Layer Code Tree Overstory PLRA QUAG-T UMCA-T SALA3-T JUCA-T Tree Understory SALA6-T Shrub TODI SALA6-M BASA4 CESP HEAR5 Herb PIMI3 ARDO3 CAPY2 TYPHA LECO12 FOVU

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Platanus racemosa Quercus agrifolia Umbellularia californica Salix laevigata Juglans californica

100 13.1 4 88 9.2 0.2 29 1.4 0.2 24 0.6 1 24 0.4 0.2

30 X X 40 X X 16 5 3

Salix lasiolepis

53

5.8

1

30 X

Toxicodendron diversilobum Salix lasiolepis Baccharis salicifolia Ceanothus spinosus Heteromeles arbutifolia

71 53 41 35 35

4.1 4.4 1.9 2.2 0.7

0.2 0.2 2 0.2 0.2

20 35 12 23 4

Piptatherum miliaceum Artemisia douglasiana Carduus pycnocephalus Typha Leymus condensatus Foeniculum vulgare

47 35 29 24 24 24

1.8 0.7 0.1 0.4 0.3 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

20 4 1 3 3 1

X X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Baccharis plummerae was found in 1 of 17 surveys of this plant community, which is assumed to be the rare subspecies B. p. subsp. plummerae. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-1-3. Global rank is G3T3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 6 of 17 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Lilium humboldtii was found in 1 of 17 surveys of this plant community, which is most likely the rare subspecies Lilium humboldtii subsp. ocellatum. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G4T3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Woodwardia fimbriata was found in 1 of 17 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Locally Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List none, CNPS R-E-D Code is 0-0-0. Global rank is none, and state rank is none. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Piptatherum miliaceum, Carduus pycnocephalus, Foeniculum vulgare, Lactuca serriola, Bromus diandrus, Arundo donax, Dactylis glomerata, Melilotus albus, Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum, C1188-1/c

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Spartium junceum, Myoporum laetum, Avena fatua, Brassica nigra, Conium maculatum, Cynodon dactylon, Schinus molle, Veronica anagallis-aquatica, Bromus madritensis, Cirsium vulgare, Convolvulus arvensis, Cortaderia, Ficus carica, Hirschfeldia incana, Lolium, Lotus corniculatus, Nerium oleander, Nicotiana glauca, Oxalis pes-caprae, Phalaris aquatica, Polypogon monspeliensis, Robinia, Silybum marianum, Sonchus oleraceus Samples Used in Description: (n = 17) AA1137, AA1188, rap0009, rap0157m, rap0355m, rap1790, rap2205m, rap2275, rap2307, rap2338, rap2427, rap2497, rap2625, rap2673, rap2682rlv, rap2769, rap2898 Comments: Of the three of the local associations in the Santa Monica Mountains with a mixture of sycamore and coast live oak, this one seems to be more tied to permanent water. The presence of Salix lasiolepis and/or S. laevigata and the addition of Typha sp. in several of the stands suggest a relatively constant source of water on a gentle slope. However, this association also represents the narrow and steep ravine type of sycamore woodland at least in part of the study area. Some stands may be on steep rocky ravines and follow upslope at a substantial distance from the bases of the mountains. The presence of Umbellularia californica in about one-third of the samples along with the constant and frequently codominant Q. agrifolia suggests narrow canyon stands. Thus, this appears to be an association with variable ecological setting. It may require further refinement in its definition. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Sycamore-Coast Live Oak-Arroyo Willow Woodland/Forest Association None Woodland Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA

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Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia South Coastal Woodland/Forest Association Coast Live Oak South Coastal Woodland/Forest Association Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance Coast Live Oak Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 6122

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to steep, north-facing slopes at elevations between 0 and 636 m. It is dominated by Quercus agrifolia in the tree layer, Heteromeles arbutifolia in the understory shrub layer, and variety of grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Eastern Urban, Simi Hills Inland, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Dry Inland, Immediate Coast, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–636 m, mean 325 m Aspect: variable but often northeast and northwest Slope: range 2–35 degrees, mean 23.0 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable but more often concave; bottom to top slopes Litter Cover: range 45–95%, mean 72.9% Small Rock Cover: range 0–30%, mean 6.4% Large Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 3% Bare Ground: range 0–35%, mean 14.7% Parent Material: often sedimentary, occasionally depositional or igneous Soil Texture: medium loam to clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest form a sparse to continuous tree layer (9–73%, mean 43%) with hardwoods at 2–20 m tall, a sparse to open shrub layer (0–32%, mean 7.6%) at 0-10 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (0–15%, mean 2.1%) at 0–2 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 19–71%, mean cover is 52.7%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Quercus agrifolia. Platanus racemosa, Juglans californica, and Umbellularia californica are occasionally included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse to open and occasionally includes Heteromeles arbutifolia, Ceanothus spinosus, Mimulus aurantiacus, and Artemisia californica. The herbaceous layer is diverse and occasionally includes herb such as Leymus condensatus, Bromus diandrus, and Piptatherum miliaceum in low cover.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia South Coastal Woodland/Forest Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T PLRA JUCA-T Shrub HEAR5 CESP MIAU ARCA11 MALA6 TODI

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Platanus racemosa Juglans californica

100 40.5 9 25 0.6 0.2 21 0.4 0.2

65 X X 8 5

Heteromeles arbutifolia Ceanothus spinosus Mimulus aurantiacus Artemisia californica Malosma laurina Toxicodendron diversilobum

46 42 31 29 27 23

7 7.5 6 6 6 2.5

1 1.1 0.6 0.4 0.7 0.3

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 11 of 48 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Piptatherum miliaceum, Carduus pycnocephalus, Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Vinca major, Ailanthus altissima, Bromus madritensis, Arundo donax, Avena, Erodium, Hirschfeldia incana, Stellaria media Samples Used in Description: (n = 48) AA0048cc, AA0084cc, AA0089cc, AA0193cc, AA0213cc, AA0414, AA0524, AA0532, AA0546, AA0550, AA0552, AA0585, AA0594, AA0647, AA0648, AA0660, AA0707, AA0751, AA0766, AA0774, AA0775, AA0802, AA0844, AA0845, AA0856, AA0890, AA0922, AA1012, AA1017, AA1037, AA1044, AA1107, AA1181, AA1220, rap0014m, rap0142, rap0421m, rap0583, rap0744, rap0807, rap1073, rap2187, rap2197, rap2387, rap2398, rap2478, rap2508, rap2601 Comments: This is the generic coast live oak woodland of the Santa Monica Mountains within the south coastal region. It has no characteristic understory species in either the shrub or the herb layer. Since more than half of the samples were assessed within the stand and still did not group with other locally defined associations, it is unlikely that this is the result of several of the samples being taken from out of the stand precluding detailed assessment of the understory. In general, the relatively closed canopy, shady understory, and dense litter cover may be the cause of the indistinct understory composition. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP

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Coast Live Oak South Coastal Woodland/Forest Association None Woodland Evergreen woodland Extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland

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PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Natural/Seminatural extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Sclerophyllous extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S5

Global Description Distribution: This association is analogous to the Quercus agrifolia Association, in which coast live oak is the only principal indicator. This association (or suballiance, as defined by Allen et al. 1991) ranges from central coastal (San Luis Obispo County) to southern California (San Diego County). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: This common association occurs on lower slopes and hillsides west of the coastal divide in central and southern California. It occurs largely on west-, east-, and south-facing exposures between 100 and 400 m elevation on moderate to steep slopes. Substrate is largely rocky and/or gravelly loams over sedimentary sandstones and shales. Vegetation Description: The canopy is strongly dominated by Quercus agrifolia with generally low cover of understory species. Comments: This association has relatively high tree cover and low cover of understory species. References: Allen et al. 1991, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia/Adenostoma fasciculatum Woodland/Forest Association Coast Live Oak/Chamise Woodland/Forest Association Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance Coast Live Oak Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 6115

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on somewhat steep to steep north-facing slopes at low elevations between 0 and 612 m. It is dominated by Quercus agrifolia in the tree layer, Adenostoma fasciculatum in the understory shrub layer, and a variety of grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–612 m, mean 353.3 m Aspect: variable, but often northeast and northwest Slope: range 15–40 degrees, mean 30.5 degrees Topography (micro; macro): often flat, occasionally undulating; lower to upper Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: range 5–25%, mean 11.7% Large Rock Cover: range 1–15%, mean 10.3% Bare Ground: range 10–35%, mean 20% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus agrifolia/Adenostoma fasciculatum Woodland/Forest form a sparse to open tree layer (0–15%, mean 8.7%) with hardwoods at 5–15 m tall, an open to intermittent shrub layer (10–58%, mean 36.8%) at 01–5 m tall, and a sparse to intermittent herbaceous layer (0–40%, mean 11.3%) at 0–0.5 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 32–60%, mean cover is 50%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Quercus agrifolia. The open to intermittent shrub layer is dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum. Frequently, Mimulus aurantiacus, Malosma laurina, Ceanothus spinosus, Heteromeles arbutifolia, and Rhus ovata are also included. The herbaceous layer is simple and occasionally includes Melica imperfecta and Leymus condensatus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia/Adenostoma fasciculatum Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Tree Understory QUAG-M Shrub ADFA MIAU MALA6 CESP HEAR5 RHOV CEBE3 YUWH Herb MEIM LECO12

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

83

9.7

8

15 X X

Quercus agrifolia

33

3.5

9

12

Adenostoma fasciculatum Mimulus aurantiacus Malosma laurina Ceanothus spinosus Heteromeles arbutifolia Rhus ovata Cercocarpus betuloides Yucca whipplei

100 17.3 7 83 2.3 1 83 1.6 1 67 3.7 1 67 1 0.2 50 1 1 33 2.2 1 33 0.4 0.2

35 X X 5 X 3 X 10 3 3 12 2.5

Melica imperfecta Leymus condensatus

33 33

40 2.5

9.2 0.4

15 0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Erodium cicutarium Samples Used in Description: (n = 6) AA0224cc, rap0155m, rap0406, rap0470m, rap0575, rap1285m Comments: This association represents a transitional stage between chaparral dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum and oak woodland dominated by Quercus agrifolia, with chamise chaparral in a marginal environmental setting such as on a northerly facing lower slope that is being colonized by oak from an adjacent stand. This type also may be associated with the presence of rocks creating microclimates such as in sandstone areas of Castro Crest or upper Simi Hills. Such situations are apparently uncommon, resulting in only a few stands sampled. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE

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Coast Live Oak/Chamise Woodland/Forest Association None Woodland Evergreen woodland Extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Natural/Seminatural extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Sclerophyllous extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: Similar open woodlands of short Quercus agrifolia over A. fasciculatum have been seen in other parts of California (e.g., Monterey County, T. Keeler-Wolf personal observation 2004) but have not been sampled. Q. agrifolia/Chaparral Association is described from western Riverside County in which the understory contains a mixture of chaparral species including Adenostoma fasciculatum. Further, Q. agrifolia/Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Association is described from central California from Monterey south to Ventura County, which is quite similar to this. In this type, Salvia mellifera only occurs in 62% of the samples. However, it is insignificant in the Santa Monica Mountains samples. Further descriptive work may show all these types to be equivalent. References: Allen et al. 1991, Klein and Evens 2005

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association Coast Live Oak/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance Coast Live Oak Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1111

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on flat to steep slopes that are often facing northwest at low elevations between 32 and 625 m. It is dominated by Quercus agrifolia in the tree layer and Bromus diandrus and other herbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Western Fog Zone, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Hills Inland, Immediate Coast, and Eastern Urban regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 32–625 m, mean 312.2 m Aspect: variable but often northwest or flat Slope: range 0–35 degrees, mean 15.9 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable but more often undulating or flat; bottom to top slopes Litter Cover: range 11–88%, mean 64.9% Small Rock Cover: range 0–25%, mean 5.6% Large Rock Cover: range 0–85%, mean 4.5% Bare Ground: range 0–70%, mean 16.1% Parent Material: depositional or sedimentary, occasionally igneous Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy clay loam to fine clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus agrifolia/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest form a sparse to intermittent tree layer (2–59%, mean 23.1%) with conifers at 0–15 m tall and hardwoods at 2–15 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (0–41%, mean 6.8%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse to continuous herbaceous layer (4–70%, mean 24.1%) at 0–2 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 11–78%, mean cover is 50.1%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Quercus agrifolia. Other trees such as Eucalyptus sp., Quercus lobata, and Juglans californica may infrequently be present at low cover as well. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and occasionally includes Salvia leucophylla, Artemisia californica, Sambucus mexicana, and Malosma laurina. The herbaceous layer is diverse and is dominated by Bromus diandrus. Other herbs often include Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Marrubium vulgare, Bromus hordeaceus, and Avena fatua.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia/Annual Grass-Herb Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Tree Understory QUAG-M QUAG-L Shrub SALE3 ARCA11 SAME5 MALA6 HASQ2 MIAU HEAR5 MAFA BAPI TODI Herb BRDI3 BRNI CEME2 MAVU BRHO2 AVFA LECO12 HIIN3 MEIN2 SIMA3 BROMU BRMA3 CIVU MAMA8

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

93

20.6

1

55 X X

Quercus agrifolia Quercus agrifolia

32 24

1.3 0.2

0.2 0.2

20 3

Salvia leucophylla Artemisia californica Sambucus mexicana Malosma laurina Hazardia squarrosa Mimulus aurantiacus Heteromeles arbutifolia Malacothamnus fasciculatus Baccharis pilularis Toxicodendron diversilobum

37 32 32 29 29 27 24 22 20 20

1 0.7 0.1 0.6 0.3 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.4 0.3

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

23 12 1 6 3 7 4 7.5 7 4

Bromus diandrus Brassica nigra Centaurea melitensis Marrubium vulgare Bromus hordeaceus Avena fatua Leymus condensatus Hirschfeldia incana Melilotus indicus Silybum marianum Bromus Bromus madritensis Cirsium vulgare Marah macrocarpus

63 51 44 41 29 27 27 27 27 22 20 20 20 20

9.4 1.6 1.2 0.3 0.9 0.8 0.5 0.5 0.4 0.1 2.5 0.6 0.2 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 6 0.2 0.2 0.2

56 X 31 20 7 15 20 12 8 10 2 23 15 2 2

X X X X X X X X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Brodiaea jolonensis was found in 1 of 41 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Locally Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List none, CNPS R-E-D Code is 0-0-0. Global rank is none, and state rank is none. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 41 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Delphinium parryi was found in 1 of 41 surveys of this plant community, which may be the rare D. parryi subsp. blochmaniae. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 3-2-3. Global rank is G4T2, and state rank is S2.2. Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004).

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Juglans californica was found in 5 of 41 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Marrubium vulgare, Bromus hordeaceus, Avena fatua, Hirschfeldia incana, Melilotus indicus, Silybum marianum, Bromus madritensis, Cirsium vulgare, Galium aparine, Erodium cicutarium, Lactuca serriola, Avena barbata, Medicago polymorpha, Sonchus oleraceus, Lolium, Carduus pycnocephalus, Malva parviflora, Avena, Stellaria media, Piptatherum miliaceum, Anagallis arvensis, Sisymbrium, Picris echioides, Conyza canadensis, Foeniculum vulgare, Phalaris aquatica, Nicotiana glauca, Rumex crispus, Schinus molle, Sonchus asper, Chenopodium ambrosioides, Cynodon dactylon, Tamarix, Anthriscus caucalis, Centaurea solstitialis, Erodium, Erodium botrys, Erodium moschatum, Hypochaeris, Melilotus officinalis, Myoporum laetum, Raphanus sativus, Salsola tragus, Vicia villosa Samples Used in Description: (n = 41) AA0043cc, AA0099cc, AA0225cc, AA0353, AA0460cc, AA0465cc, AA0543, AA0583, AA0689, AA0804, AA0815, AA0910, AA0941, AA1120, AA1189, rap0206, rap0401m, rap0403m, rap0854, rap0956, rap1311, rap1312, rap1321, rap1327, rap1619, rap1635, rap1731, rap1896, rap1928, rap2157, rap2354, rap2392, rap2462rlv, rap2463rlv, rap2556rlv, rap2578, rap2678, rap2751rlv, rap2851rlv, rap2852rlv, rap2854rlv Comments: This association is the common live oak/grass association in the study area. It has been described elsewhere for California. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

Coast Live Oak/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association Coast Live Oak/Grass (Allen et al. 1991) Woodland Evergreen woodland Extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Natural/Seminatural extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Sclerophyllous extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Global Description Distribution: This association is known from much of central and southern coastal California. This association is known from Solano to San Diego counties. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: This association occupies virtually all aspects and slope steepness (0–32 degrees) between 50 and 700 m elevation. Substrate texture is variable, and stands typically occur on sandstones and shales. Vegetation Description: The Quercus agrifolia overstory is variable in cover from open to continuous cover. The herbaceous layer is usually intermittent to open, especially with forbs (e.g., Brassica spp., Claytonia perfoliata, and Lupinus spp.) and nonnative annual grasses (e.g., Bromus diandrus, B. hordeaceus, and Vulpia spp.). Comments: This association was originally named Quercus agrifolia/Grass by Allen et al. (1991) from Solano to Monterey counties, though it has been documented elsewhere in southern California as well as central California. It is called Quercus agrifolia/Annual Grass-Herb herein to better describe the annual nature of the understory. References: Allen et al. 1991, Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia/Ceanothus spinosus Woodland/Forest Association Coast Live Oak/Greenbark Ceanothus Woodland/Forest Association Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance Coast Live Oak Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1118

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to steep north-facing slopes at low elevations between 136 and 517 m. It is dominated by Quercus agrifolia in the tree layer, Ceanothus spinosus in the understory shrub layer, and a variety of grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Immediate Coast, and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 136–517 m, mean 372 m Aspect: variable but often northwest or northeast Slope: range 3–43 degrees, mean 24.0 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable but more often concave or undulating; bottom to upper slopes Litter Cover: range 65–85%, mean 76.4% Small Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 5.1% Large Rock Cover: range 0–5%, mean 1.9% Bare Ground: range 0–25%, mean 9.4% Parent Material: more often sedimentary, occasionally igneous or depositional Soil Texture: coarse loamy sand to moderately fine silty clay loam but more often medium loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus agrifolia/Ceanothus spinosus Woodland/Forest form an open to continuous tree layer (12–78%, mean 24.7%) with hardwoods at 5–15 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (0–55%, mean 34.2%) at 0–10 m tall, and a sparse to intermittent herbaceous layer (0–35%, mean 4.3%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 41–78%, mean cover is 60.3%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Quercus agrifolia. Juglans californica is occasionally included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and is dominated by Ceanothus spinosus. Heteromeles arbutifolia and Mimulus aurantiacus are often included. The herbaceous layer is diverse and includes Leymus condensatus, Melica imperfecta, Dryopteris arguta, and Marah macrocarpus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia/Ceanothus spinosus Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T JUCA-T Shrub CESP HEAR5 MIAU CEME MALA6 TODI SAME5 KECO RHOV SASP3 Herb LECO12 MEIM DRAR3 MAMA8

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Juglans californica

100 22.9 12 28 0.4 0.2

60 X X 2.5

Ceanothus spinosus Heteromeles arbutifolia Mimulus aurantiacus Ceanothus megacarpus Malosma laurina Toxicodendron diversilobum Sambucus mexicana Keckiella cordifolia Rhus ovata Salvia spathacea

100 22.8 7 59 1.8 0.2 52 1.5 0.2 45 2 0.2 45 1.1 0.2 34 0.6 0.2 24 0.3 0.2 21 0.5 1 21 0.3 0.2 21 0.1 0.2

45 X X 8 7 25 7 7 3 5 4 1

Leymus condensatus Melica imperfecta Dryopteris arguta Marah macrocarpus

34 24 24 21

3 35 2 3

0.4 1.5 0.1 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 8 of 29 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Piptatherum miliaceum, Carduus pycnocephalus, Bromus diandrus, Bromus madritensis, Galium aparine, Bromus hordeaceus, Brassica, Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Phalaris aquatica, Foeniculum vulgare, Marrubium vulgare, Medicago polymorpha, Nicotiana glauca, Ricinus communis, Spartium junceum, Stellaria media Samples Used in Description: (n = 29) AA0053cc, AA0130cc, AA0228cc, AA0523, AA0596, AA0643, AA0655, AA0864, AA1041, AA1042, AA1055, AA1185, rap0128, rap0129, rap0443, rap0554m, rap0555, rap0557m, rap0677, rap1292, rap1707, rap2096, rap2189, rap2367, rap2433, rap2442, rap2490, rap2592, rap2828 Comments: This association is largely endemic to the Santa Monica Mountains and characterized by the mixture of coast live oak over the tall mesic chaparral shrub Ceanothus spinosus. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM

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Coast Live Oak/Greenbark Ceanothus Woodland/Forest Association None

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PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Woodland Evergreen woodland Extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Natural/Seminatural extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Sclerophyllous extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia/Heteromeles arbutifolia Woodland/Forest Association Coast Live Oak/Toyon Woodland/Forest Association Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance Coast Live Oak Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 6117

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on somewhat steep to steep slopes with variable or north-facing aspects at elevations between 87 and 658 m. It is dominated by Quercus agrifolia in the tree layer, Heteromeles arbutifolia in the understory shrub layer, and a variety of grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Hills Inland, Eastern Urban, Dry Inland, Immediate Coast, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 87–658 m, mean 349.9 m Aspect: variable but often northeast or northwest Slope: range 15–40 degrees, mean 30.5 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable but often undulating; bottom to top slopes Litter Cover: range 65–85%, mean 75% Small Rock Cover: range 0–10%, mean 4.3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–10%, mean 2.5% Bare Ground: range 2–20%, mean 7.8% Parent Material: often sedimentary, occasionally igneous or depositional Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy clay loam to moderately fine silty clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus agrifolia/Heteromeles arbutifolia Woodland/Forest form a sparse to intermittent tree layer (2–51%, mean 26.3%) with hardwoods at 5–10 m tall, an open to intermittent shrub layer (13–45%, mean 22.3%) at 0–10 m tall, and a sparse herbaceous layer (0–10%, mean 4.1%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 30–71%, mean cover is 51.9%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Quercus agrifolia. The open to intermittent shrub layer is dominated by Heteromeles arbutifolia. Malosma laurina and Toxicodendron diversilobum are often included in low to moderate cover. Occasionally, Ceanothus spinosus and Mimulus aurantiacus may also be present in low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and includes a variety of grasses and forbs with Leymus condensatus most frequently occurring. Bromus sp., Melica imperfecta, Bromus diandrus, and Stellaria media are other herbs present in the stands at low frequency.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia/Heteromeles arbutifolia Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub HEAR5 MALA6 TODI CESP MIAU ARCA11 RHOV RHIN2 MAFA SAME5 CEBE3 SALE3 Herb LECO12

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

100 25.5 2.5 50.0 X X

Heteromeles arbutifolia Malosma laurina Toxicodendron diversilobum Ceanothus spinosus Mimulus aurantiacus Artemisia californica Rhus ovata Rhus integrifolia Malacothamnus fasciculatus Sambucus mexicana Cercocarpus betuloides Salvia leucophylla

89 61 50 39 39 28 28 22 22 22 22 22

7.8 3.1 1.1 0.6 0.5 0.2 0.2 2.6 1.3 0.3 0.3 0.2

0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 2.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

25.0 15.0 6.0 3.0 3.0 1.0 1.0 25.0 12.0 3.0 2.5 2.5

Leymus condensatus

50

0.5

0.2

3.0

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Hemizonia minthornii was found in 1 of 18 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G2, and state rank is S2.2. Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is Rare (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 4 of 18 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Stellaria media, Carduus pycnocephalus, Ageratina adenophora, Avena, Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Brassica nigra, Bromus hordeaceus, Bromus madritensis, Piptatherum miliaceum, Senecio mikanioides, Avena fatua, Hedera helix, Lolium, Marrubium vulgare, Nicotiana glauca Samples Used in Description: (n = 18) AA0219cc, AA0392cc, AA0522, AA0735, AA0783, AA0838, AA0893, AA0919, AA1174, rap0407, rap0714, rap1694, rap1993, rap2280, rap2394, rap2446, rap2636, rap2653 Comments: Coast live oak and toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia) co-occur commonly throughout coastal, central, and southern California. This association is equivalent to others defined by Allen et al. (1991). Two phases were defined locally: one with relatively high cover of Heteromeles in the shrub layer and another with relatively high cover of Malosma laurina. Both of these phases overlap sufficiently in environmental and species characteristics to not be distinguished at the association level.

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Phases: Quercus agrifolia/Heteromeles arbutifolia (Coast Live Oak/Toyon) Phase [6117] Quercus agrifolia/Malosma laurina (Coast Live Oak/Laurel Sumac) Phase [6116] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP

Coast Live Oak/Toyon Woodland/Forest Association None Woodland Evergreen woodland Extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Natural/Seminatural extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland FORMATION Sclerophyllous extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland ALLIANCE Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL: 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS:

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK:

G5S5

Global Description Distribution: Similar associations (e.g., similar Q. agrifolia/Heteromeles arbutifolia-Toxicodendron diversilobum Association) are known from much of central and southern coastal California, as far north as Napa County and as far south as Los Angeles County. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: This association typically occurs on moderate to steep north- to northeast-facing slopes. The soils are mostly loams over hard sedimentary rocks such as sandstone and shale. Vegetation Description: Average cover reported by Allen et al. (1991) for the similar Q. agrifolia/Heteromeles arbutifoliaToxicodendron diversilobum Association is 89% tree cover and about 10% H. arbutifolia and T. diversilobum cover. A number of woody and herbaceous species occur in < 15% constancy. Comments: Allen et al. (1991) have identified two associations of coast live oak with toyon: one with the shrub Toxicodendron diversilobum and one with grass species in the understory. It is likely that the currently defined association herein is most similar to the one with Toxicodendron diversilobum. Although only 50% of the samples had T. diversilobum, the other environmental characteristics suggest a congruence of this and these two types. Since both accounts do not completely detail the herbaceous component of stands, it remains for a more detailed study to reveal whether these two associations can be reduced to synonymy. References: Allen et al. 1991, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia/Quercus berberidifolia Woodland/Forest Association Coast Live Oak/Scrub Oak Woodland/Forest Association Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance Coast Live Oak Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 6112

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to somewhat steep slopes with variable aspects at low elevations between 118 and 413 m. It is dominated by Quercus agrifolia in the tree layer, Quercus berberidifolia in the understory shrub layer, and a variety of grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Lower Elevation Inland and Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Dry Inland, and Eastern Urban regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 118–413 m, mean 248 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 4–18 degrees, mean 14.0 degrees Topography (micro; macro): often undulating, occasionally concave; bottom to lower slopes, sometimes to upper slopes Litter Cover: range 35–80%, mean 61% Small Rock Cover: range 1–30%, mean 9% Large Rock Cover: range 0–10%, mean 2.8% Bare Ground: range 1–35%, mean 21.7% Parent Material: sedimentary or depositional Soil Texture: medium loam to moderately fine sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus agrifolia/Quercus berberidifolia Woodland/Forest form an open to intermittent tree layer (12–38%, mean 23.1%) with hardwoods at 5–15 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (9–50%, mean 28.6%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (0–18%, mean 7%) at 0–1m tall. Total vegetation cover is 45–68%, mean cover is 57%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Quercus agrifolia. Juglans californica and Populus fremontii are occasionally included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and is dominated by Quercus berberidifolia. Occasionally, Rhamnus ilicifolia, Ceanothus cuneatus, Heteromeles arbutifolia, Sambucus mexicana, and Cercocarpus betuloides are also included. The herbaceous layer is diverse and includes Bromus sp., Centaurea melitensis, and Dryopteris arguta.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia/Quercus berberidifolia Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T JUCA-T POFR2 Tree Understory SALA6-T Shrub QUBE5 RHIL CECU HEAR5 SAME5 CEBE3 MALA6 CESP TODI MIAU ERFA2 Herb BROMU UNHE BRDI3 CEME2 STME2 DRAR3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Juglans californica Populus fremontii

100 21.5 9 25 1.1 2.5 25 0.3 0.2

35 X X 6 2.5

Salix lasiolepis

25

0.4

1

2.5

Quercus berberidifolia Rhamnus ilicifolia Ceanothus cuneatus Heteromeles arbutifolia Sambucus mexicana Cercocarpus betuloides Malosma laurina Ceanothus spinosus Toxicodendron diversilobum Mimulus aurantiacus Eriogonum fasciculatum

100 50 38 38 38 38 25 25 25 25 25

18 0.6 4.8 0.9 0.5 0.4 1.3 0.5 0.5 0.2 0.1

4 0.2 0.2 2 0.2 0.2 3 1 1 0.2 0.2

32 X X 2.5 22 3 2 2 7.5 3 3 1 0.2

Bromus Unknown Herbs/Forbs Bromus diandrus Centaurea melitensis Stellaria media Dryopteris arguta

38 38 38 25 25 25

3.1 1.4 0.5 0.8 0.2 0.1

4 3 0.2 3 0.2 0.2

11 5 2.5 3 1 0.2

X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 2 of 8 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Polygala cornuta was found in 1 of 8 surveys of this plant community, which could be the rare subspecies P. C. var. fishiae. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-1-2. Global rank is G5T4, and state rank is S3.3. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Centaurea melitensis, Stellaria media, Galium aparine, Carduus pycnocephalus, Lolium, Marrubium vulgare, Melilotus albus, Piptatherum miliaceum, Vinca major Samples Used in Description: (n = 8) AA0470cc, AA0754cc, AA0808, AA1136, rap0459, rap1551m, rap2253, rap2830 Comments: This association typically occurs in between a lower slope or bottom slope position while Quercus agrifolia Woodland, Q. agrifolia/Heteromeles arbutifolia, or other Q. agrifolia associations occur and a middle or lower slope position with Quercus berberidifolia Alliance stands. These oaks C1188-1/c

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stands are not usually adjacent or transitional throughout the Santa Monica Mountains, and they occur in large enough stands so as not to be considered strictly ecotonal. Phases: None COMMON NAME

Coast Live Oak/Scrub Oak Woodland/Forest Association SYNONYM None PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS Woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS Evergreen woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP Extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP Natural/Seminatural extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland FORMATION Sclerophyllous extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland ALLIANCE Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL: 1 ECOLOGICAL REGIONS:

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK:

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: A somewhat similar association, the Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica/Heteromeles arbutifolia-Quercus berberidifolia Association, has been defined. It differs from this association by having Umbellularia in > 75% of the samples, and Arbutus menziesii in about half of the samples. It is perhaps a northern California analog to this association. References: Allen et al. 1991

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia/Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica Woodland/Forest Association Coast Live Oak/Purple Sage-California Sagebrush Woodland/Forest Association Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance Coast Live Oak Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1116

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on somewhat steep to steep slopes that are often north facing at elevations between 53 and 420 m. It is dominated by Quercus agrifolia in the tree layer, Salvia leucophylla and Artemisia californica in the understory shrub layer, and a variety of grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Immediate Coast, Simi Hills Inland, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 53–420 m, mean 301.1 m Aspect: variable but often northwest or northeast Slope: range 15–35 degrees, mean 26.0 degrees Topography (micro; macro): often convex or undulating, occasionally flat; bottom to top slopes Litter Cover: range 20–75%, mean 49.4% Small Rock Cover: range 2–20%, mean 10.3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–2%, mean 1.1% Bare Ground: range 15–50%, mean 28.8% Parent Material: often sedimentary, occasionally depositional or igneous Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam to fine sandy clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus agrifolia/Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica Woodland/Forest form a sparse to intermittent tree layer (8–35%, mean 19.3%) with hardwoods at 2–15 m tall, an open to intermittent shrub layer (10–50%, mean 27.5%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (0–22%, mean 5.6%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 32–64%, mean cover is 49.9%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Quercus agrifolia. Juglans californica is occasionally included in this layer. The open to intermittent shrub layer is dominated by Salvia leucophylla and Artemisia californica. Occasionally, Malosma laurina and Malacothamnus fasciculatus are also included. The herbaceous layer is diverse and includes Leymus condensatus, Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, and Centaurea melitensis.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia/Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T JUCA-T QULO-T Shrub SALE3 ARCA11 MALA6 SAME5 MAFA HASQ2 HEAR5 MIAU RHOV TODI BAPI Herb LECO12 BRNI BRDI3 CEME2

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Juglans californica Quercus lobata

96 29 29

16.1 1.9 0.7

Salvia leucophylla Artemisia californica Malosma laurina Sambucus mexicana Malacothamnus fasciculatus Hazardia squarrosa Heteromeles arbutifolia Mimulus aurantiacus Rhus ovata Toxicodendron diversilobum Baccharis pilularis

100 13.3 2 96 10 0.2 46 1.2 0.2 43 0.4 0.2 36 1 0.2 32 0.2 0.2 29 0.5 0.2 21 0.8 0.2 21 0.5 0.2 21 0.3 0.2 21 0.2 0.2

25 X X 23 X X 9 2.5 17 3 5 12 6 7.5 2.5

Leymus condensatus Brassica nigra Bromus diandrus Centaurea melitensis

54 36 29 29

10 8 6 3

1.4 0.5 0.9 0.4

5 1 1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

33 X X 15 4

X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 9 of 28 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus madritensis, Carduus pycnocephalus, Marrubium vulgare, Avena, Melilotus indicus, Lolium, Silybum marianum, Bromus hordeaceus, Anagallis arvensis, Avena barbata, Avena fatua, Erodium cicutarium, Galium aparine, Lactuca serriola, Medicago polymorpha, Senecio vulgaris, Vicia villosa Samples Used in Description: (n = 28) AA0318cc, AA0385cc, AA0462cc, AA0496cc, AA0578, AA0684, AA0687, AA0709, AA0951, AA0953, AA0981, AA1096, AA1180, rap0200, rap1309, rap1325, rap1401, rap1847m, rap2001, rap2067, rap2184, rap2185, rap2199, rap2201, rap2277, rap2554rlv, rap2630, rap2853rlv Comments: This is a locally common association that is largely endemic to the Santa Monica Mountains and Ventura region of the southern California coast. It represents the most common expression of coast live oak and coastal sage scrub species. These stands appear to be mature stands with lengthening intervals between fires, which have allowed for oaks and coastal scrub to recolonize areas and develop into mature trees and shrubs that may have been dominated more by grasses under a regime of higher frequency fire. Alternatively, this type may be a type recovering from grazing pressure more than a release from fires (J. Christian, personal observation). C1188-1/c

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Phases: None COMMON NAME

Coast Live Oak/Purple Sage-California Sagebrush Woodland/Forest Association SYNONYM None PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS Woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS Evergreen woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP Extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP Natural/Seminatural extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland FORMATION Sclerophyllous extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland ALLIANCE Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL: 1 ECOLOGICAL REGIONS:

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK:

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: A similar association has been reported by Allen et al. (1991). It is the Quercus agrifolia/ Artemisia californica/Grass Association. It is likely to be the "parent" suballiance to this association. It is identified from Santa Clara to San Diego counties with Artemisia californica as the overall constant shrub at 88% and Salvia leucophylla at 13% constancy. However, since A. californica has a much wider geographic range than S. leucophylla, it is likely that if the southern California samples were analyzed separately, they would also have shown a higher constancy of S. leucophylla, thus mirroring the Santa Monica Mountains situation. References: Allen et al. 1991

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Quercus agrifolia/Toxicodendron diversilobum Woodland/Forest Association Coast Live Oak/Poison Oak Woodland/Forest Association Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance Coast Live Oak Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1117

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to steep slopes with variable aspects at low elevations between 40 and 577 m. It is dominated by Quercus agrifolia in the tree layer. Toxicodendron diversilobum is characteristic in the understory shrub layer, and a variety of grasses and forbs is in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Immediate Coast, Eastern Urban, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Hills Inland, and Dry Inland of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 40–577 m, mean 286.4 m Aspect: variable, often northwest or northeast Slope: range 1–40 degrees, mean 20.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable; bottom to top slopes Litter Cover: range 45–85%, mean 72.2% Small Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 4.2% Large Rock Cover: range 0–20%, mean 3% Bare Ground: range 2–25%, mean 12% Parent Material: often sedimentary, occasionally depositional or igneous Soil Texture: medium to very fine loamy sand to moderately fine sandy clay loam but often medium loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus agrifolia/Toxicodendron diversilobum Woodland/Forest form a sparse to continuous tree layer (5–74%, mean 31.8%) with conifers at 0–20 m tall and hardwoods at 2–35 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (6–56%, mean 24.8%) at 0–10 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (0–15%, mean 5.3%) at 0–2 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 38–90%, mean cover is 58.6%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Quercus agrifolia. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and is characterized by Toxicodendron diversilobum. Frequently, Mimulus aurantiacus and Heteromeles arbutifolia are also included. Malosma laurina, Artemisia californica, Salvia leucophylla, Sambucus mexicana, and Rhamnus ilicifolia are occasionally included in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is diverse and includes Leymus condensatus, Marah macrocarpus, Bromus diandrus, Piptatherum miliaceum, and Melica imperfecta.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia/Toxicodendron diversilobum Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Tree Understory QUAG-M Shrub TODI MIAU HEAR5 MALA6 ARCA11 SALE3 SAME5 RHIL KECO MAFA CESP BAPI Herb LECO12 MAMA8 BRDI3 PIMI3 MEIM

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

100 29.0 5.0 65.0 X X

Quercus agrifolia

34

1.7

1.0 15.0

Toxicodendron diversilobum Mimulus aurantiacus Heteromeles arbutifolia Malosma laurina Artemisia californica Salvia leucophylla Sambucus mexicana Rhamnus ilicifolia Keckiella cordifolia Malacothamnus fasciculatus Ceanothus spinosus Baccharis pilularis

86 71 54 49 46 37 34 34 29 26 23 20

7.3 4.7 1.0 1.4 1.8 1.1 0.5 0.3 0.6 0.4 1.0 0.7

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Leymus condensatus Marah macrocarpus Bromus diandrus Piptatherum miliaceum Melica imperfecta

57 26 23 23 20

1.4 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.4

0.2 15.0 0.2 2.5 0.2 4.0 0.2 3.0 0.2 7.0

51.0 25.0 5.0 9.0 16.0 15.0 2.5 2.5 5.0 3.0 12.0 10.0

X

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 8 of 35 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Lilium humboldtii was found in 1 of 35 surveys of this plant community, which is most likely the rare subspecies Lilium humboldtii subsp. ocellatum. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G4T3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Woodwardia fimbriata was found in 1 of 35 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Locally Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List none, CNPS R-E-D Code is 0-0-0. Global rank is none, and state rank is none. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Piptatherum miliaceum, Marrubium vulgare, Brassica nigra, Carduus pycnocephalus, Bromus madritensis, Phalaris aquatica, Centaurea melitensis, Galium aparine, Avena, Anagallis arvensis, Cirsium vulgare, Stellaria media, Bromus hordeaceus, Lolium, Hirschfeldia incana, Conium maculatum, Ageratina adenophora, Avena barbata, Brassica, Chenopodium album, Foeniculum vulgare, Hypochaeris, Medicago polymorpha, Melilotus indicus, Nicotiana glauca, Picris echioides, Senecio vulgaris, Sonchus, Sonchus oleraceus C1188-1/c

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Samples Used in Description: (n = 35) AA0018cc, AA0019cc, AA0046cc, AA0330cc, AA0914, AA0977, AA0978, AA1087, AA1125, AA1224, rap0002m, rap0082, rap0084, rap0198, rap0201m, rap0212, rap0215m, rap0245, rap0730, rap0756, rap0838, rap0853, rap1152, rap1374, rap1528, rap1708, rap1983, rap2076m, rap2183, rap2299, rap2304, rap2461rlv, rap2555rlv, rap2557rlv, rap2735 Comments: This is a common association in the Santa Monica Mountains. It can be distinguished from others of this alliance by the relatively high cover of understory shrubs (about 25%) most of which are Toxicodendron diversilobum and Mimulus aurantiacus. Two phases have been distinguished: one with high cover of T. diversilobum and the other with high cover of M. aurantiacus. Both have sufficient overlap in species and environmental characteristics to be combined. Phases: Quercus agrifolia/Toxicodendron diversilobum (Coast Live Oak/Poison Oak) Phase [1117] Quercus agrifolia/Mimulus aurantiacus (Coast Live Oak/Bush Monkey Flower) Phase [6113] COMMON NAME

Coast Live Oak/Poison Oak Woodland/Forest Association SYNONYM None PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS Woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS Evergreen woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP Extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP Natural/Seminatural extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland FORMATION Sclerophyllous extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland ALLIANCE Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL: 1 ECOLOGICAL REGIONS:

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK:

Global Description Distribution: This association is known from other parts of central and south coastal California (Allen et al. 1991). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Comments: Several other Quercus agrifolia associations are characterized by the presence of T. diversilobum. These include Q. agrifolia/T. diversilobum/Grass (Allen et al. 1991), Q. agrifolia/T. diversilobum-Riparian, and Q. agrifolia/T. diversilobum/Grass (Evens and San 2005), and Q. agrifolia/T. diversilobum-(Corylus cornuta) (NatureServe et al. 2003a). All these have distinguishing biogeographic and environmental features that justify keeping these as separate associations. References: Allen et al. 1991, NatureServe et al. 2003a, Evens and San 2005

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia-Juglans californica Woodland/Forest Association Coast Live Oak-California Walnut Woodland/Forest Association Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance Coast Live Oak Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1115

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on moderately steep to very steep slopes with variable aspects at low to mid elevations between 58 and 869 m. It is dominated by Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica in the tree layer. Toxicodendron diversilobum is characteristic in the understory shrub layer. A variety of grasses and forbs occurs in the herbaceous layer with Leymus condensatus most frequently occurring. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Eastern Urban, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Immediate Coast, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Dry Inland, Simi Hills Inland, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 58–869 m, mean 275 m Aspect: often northeast or northwest, sometimes southwest or variable Slope: range 7–46 degrees, mean 25.4 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable but more often undulating or concave; bottom to upper slopes Litter Cover: range 35–90%, mean 67% Small Rock Cover: range 0–50%, mean 8.4% Large Rock Cover: range 0–3%, mean 0.8% Bare Ground: range 2–35%, mean 11% Parent Material: variable but more often sedimentary, occasionally igneous or depositional Soil Texture: medium loam to moderately fine sandy clay loam but more often moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus agrifolia-Juglans californica Woodland/Forest form an open to continuous tree layer (0–72%, mean 36.5%) with hardwoods at 5–15 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (2–63%, mean 16.6%) at 0–10 m tall, and a sparse to intermittent herbaceous layer (0–46%, mean 7.3%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 44–85%, mean cover is 58.3%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica. Umbellularia californica is infrequently included in this layer at low cover. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and is characterized by Toxicodendron diversilobum, usually with highest cover. Heteromeles arbutifolia and other shrubs, such as Sambucus mexicana, Artemisia californica, and Mimulus aurantiacus, are often found in lower cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse with Leymus condensatus often present and various herbs occasionally present such as Marrubium vulgare, Bromus sp., Piptatherum miliaceum, and Brassica nigra.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia-Juglans californica Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T JUCA-T Tree Understory QUAG-M Shrub TODI HEAR5 SAME5 ARCA11 MIAU MALA6 BAPI RISP RHIN2 LONIC Herb LECO12 MAVU BRDI3 BROMU PIMI3 BRNI

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Juglans californica

100 22.8 4.0 65.0 X X 96 13.4 2.5 42.0 X X

Quercus agrifolia

22

0.4

0.2

Toxicodendron diversilobum Heteromeles arbutifolia Sambucus mexicana Artemisia californica Mimulus aurantiacus Malosma laurina Baccharis pilularis Ribes speciosum Rhus integrifolia Lonicera

87 70 48 48 43 35 26 26 22 22

6.1 2.2 1.1 0.9 0.7 0.5 0.4 0.1 0.5 0.3

0.2 20.0 0.2 10.0 0.2 7.0 0.2 5.0 0.2 4.0 0.2 3.0 0.2 2.5 0.2 1.0 0.2 4.0 0.2 4.0

Leymus condensatus Marrubium vulgare Bromus diandrus Bromus Piptatherum miliaceum Brassica nigra

52 35 30 22 22 22

0.9 0.2 1.2 0.9 0.4 0.2

0.2 4.0 0.2 2.5 1.0 12.0 1.0 7.5 0.2 6.0 0.2 2.0

3.0 X

X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 23 of 23 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Marrubium vulgare, Bromus diandrus, Piptatherum miliaceum, Brassica nigra, Carduus pycnocephalus, Ageratina adenophora, Medicago polymorpha, Silybum marianum, Centaurea melitensis, Brassica, Euphorbia terracina, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus hordeaceus, Melilotus indicus, Stellaria media, Cirsium vulgare, Nicotiana glauca, Ricinus communis, Rumex crispus, Galium aparine, Avena, Bromus madritensis, Anagallis arvensis, Avena barbata, Erodium, Lactuca serriola, Plantago lanceolata, Sonchus asper, Sonchus oleraceus Samples Used in Description: (n = 23) AA0153cc, AA0199cc, AA0242cc, AA0306cc, AA0415, AA0502, AA0738, rap0483, rap0620m, rap0732, rap0736, rap0748, rap0755, rap0763, rap1139, rap1177, rap2255, rap2414, rap2460rlv, rap2464rlv, rap2510, rap2565, rap2926 Comments: This association is largely endemic to the Santa Monica Mountains and immediate surroundings. It is differentiated from others of this alliance by the constant presence of Juglans californica as a sub- or occasionally codominant. Also as a general note, cover values of Juglans are likely to

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average higher than recorded because some sampling was done during periods when the leaves of this deciduous species were largely absent. Two phases have been identified: one with little understory shrubs or herbs and another with high cover of Toxicodendron diversilobum. Phases: Quercus agrifolia-Juglans californica (Coast Live Oak-California Walnut) Phase [1115] Juglans californica-Quercus agrifolia/Toxicodendron diversilobum (California Walnut-Coast Live Oak/Poison Oak) Phase [6311] COMMON NAME

Coast Live Oak-California Walnut Woodland/Forest Association SYNONYM None PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS Woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS Evergreen woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP Extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP Natural/Seminatural extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland FORMATION Sclerophyllous extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland ALLIANCE Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL: 1 ECOLOGICAL REGIONS:

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK:

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia-Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Association Coast Live Oak-Arroyo Willow Woodland/Forest Association Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance Coast Live Oak Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 6114

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to somewhat steep slopes with variable aspects at low elevations between 119 and 527 m. It is dominated by Quercus agrifolia in the tree layer and Salix lasiolepis in the understory tree layer. A variety of grasses and forbs is often abundant in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone, Dry Inland, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Hills Inland, and Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 119–527 m, mean 345 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–15 degrees, mean 10.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable but more often concave; bottom to mid slopes Litter Cover: range 0–80%, mean 40% Small Rock Cover: range 0–8%, mean 4.3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–2%, mean 0.7% Bare Ground: range 15–70%, mean 33.3% Parent Material: often sedimentary, occasionally igneous Soil Texture: coarse loamy sand Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus agrifolia-Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest form an open to intermittent tree layer (27–63%, mean 46.8%) with conifers at 0–15 m tall and hardwoods at 5–15 m tall, a sparse to open shrub layer (1–16%, mean 6.7%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse herbaceous layer (0–7%, mean 3.3%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 43–65%, mean cover is 56.2%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Quercus agrifolia. Salix lasiolepis is frequently in the understory or overstory tree layer, while Salix laevigata may also occur in the overstory tree layer. The shrub layer is sparse to open and frequently includes Heteromeles arbutifolia and Toxicodendron diversilobum. The herbaceous layer is diverse and includes Piptatherum miliaceum, Artemisia douglasiana, and Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum.

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Quercus agrifolia-Salix lasiolepis Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T SALIX-T SALA3-T JUCA-T PLRA Tree Understory SALA6-T QUAG-L Shrub HEAR5 TODI RHIL BASA4 KECO Herb PIMI3 ARDO3 UNHE RONA2

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Salix Salix laevigata Juglans californica Platanus racemosa

100 28.5 19 50 4.7 5 33 2.3 4 33 0.5 0.2 33 0.2 0.2

40 X X 15 10 3 1

Salix lasiolepis Quercus agrifolia

50 33

9.3 0.5

6 1

30 X 2

Heteromeles arbutifolia Toxicodendron diversilobum Rhamnus ilicifolia Baccharis salicifolia Keckiella cordifolia

67 50 33 33 33

0.9 0.4 0.5 0.2 0.2

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

4 2 3 1 1

Piptatherum miliaceum Artemisia douglasiana Unknown Herbs/Forbs Rorippa nasturtiumaquaticum

50 50 33 33

1 0.5 0.8 0.1

0.2 0.2 2 0.2

5 2 3 0.2

X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 2 of 6 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Piptatherum miliaceum, Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum, Schinus molle, Nerium oleander, Bromus diandrus, Cortaderia, Ricinus communis, Rumex crispus, Sonchus, Vinca major Samples Used in Description: (n = 6) AA0530, AA0695, AA1020, rap1580, rap2389, rap2766 Comments: This is a riparian oak woodland. Several associated species are indicative of higher than ambient moisture settings as a result of urban runoff. Most of the Salix sp. unidentified in the overstory tree layer of this association are likely to be S. lasiolepis. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS

C1188-1/c

Coast Live Oak-Arroyo Willow Woodland/Forest Association None Woodland Evergreen woodland

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PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP

Extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Natural/Seminatural extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland FORMATION Sclerophyllous extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland ALLIANCE Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL: 2 ECOLOGICAL REGIONS:

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK:

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This association is likely to occur elsewhere in central and southern coastal California. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica Woodland/Forest Association Coast Live Oak-California Bay Woodland/Forest Association Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance Coast Live Oak Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1114

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to steep, often north-facing slopes at low to mid elevations between 0 and 851 m. It is dominated by Quercus agrifolia and Umbellularia californica in the tree layer, Heteromeles arbutifolia in the understory shrub layer, and a variety of grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–851 m, mean 399 m Aspect: variable but often northeast or northwest Slope: range 2–36 degrees, mean 24.8 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable but more often concave or undulating; bottom to top slopes Litter Cover: range 80–80%, mean 80% Small Rock Cover: range 1–9%, mean 4.4% Large Rock Cover: range 0–25%, mean 7.2% Bare Ground: range 1–15%, mean 6.8% Parent Material: often sedimentary, occasionally igneous, metamorphic, or depositional Soil Texture: more often medium loam, less often moderately fine silty clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica Woodland/Forest form an open to continuous tree layer (7–70%, mean 40.3%) with hardwoods at 2–20 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (0–50%, mean 15.7%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (0–15%, mean 1.7%) at 0–2 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 40–78%, mean cover is 57%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Quercus agrifolia and Umbellularia californica. Platanus racemosa and Juglans californica are occasionally included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and is characterized by Heteromeles arbutifolia at low cover. Frequently, Toxicodendron diversilobum and Mimulus aurantiacus are also included. The herbaceous layer is diverse and occasionally includes Leymus condensatus, Rubus ursinus, Marah macrocarpus, and Dryopteris arguta.

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Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T UMCA-T PLRA JUCA-T Tree Understory UMCA-M Shrub HEAR5 TODI MIAU CESP CEOL PRIL RHOV MALA6 Herb LECO12 RUUR MAMA8 DRAR3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Umbellularia californica Platanus racemosa Juglans californica

100 22.4 1.0 50.0 X X 89 14.7 1.0 45.0 X X 44 1.4 0.2 10.0 28 0.8 1.0 6.0

Umbellularia californica

22

1.0

2.0

Heteromeles arbutifolia Toxicodendron diversilobum Mimulus aurantiacus Ceanothus spinosus Ceanothus oliganthus Prunus ilicifolia Rhus ovata Malosma laurina

78 67 50 44 28 28 22 22

1.4 4.6 1.2 2.2 0.7 0.3 0.4 0.4

0.2 7.0 1.0 20.0 0.2 6.0 0.2 17.0 0.2 5.0 0.2 2.5 1.0 4.0 0.2 2.5

Leymus condensatus Rubus ursinus Marah macrocarpus Dryopteris arguta

39 22 22 22

0.7 0.4 0.2 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

8.0 X

4.0 6.0 2.5 1.0

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 5 of 18 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Lepechinia fragrans was found in 1 of 18 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Lilium humboldtii was found in 1 of 18 surveys of this plant community, which is most likely the rare subspecies Lilium humboldtii subsp. ocellatum. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G4T3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Piptatherum miliaceum, Bromus hordeaceus, Senecio mikanioides, Spartium junceum Samples Used in Description: (n = 18) AA0143cc, AA0221cc, AA0260cc, AA0654, AA0786, AA0965, rap0410, rap0435, rap0460, rap0498, rap0585, rap0782, rap1514m, rap1591, rap1775, rap2285, rap2352, rap2383

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Comments: This is the common oak and bay forest of the Santa Monica Mountains. It is widespread on mesic slopes and in canyons at lower to mid elevations. Coast live oak is usually clearly dominant, but California bay accounts for approximately half the total tree cover. Two phases have been identified, one with significantly higher Toxicodendron cover than the other. Phases: Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica (Coast Live Oak-California Bay) Phase [1114] Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica/Toxicodendron diversilobum (Coast Live Oak-California Bay/Poison Oak) Phase [6119] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Coast Live Oak-California Bay Woodland/Forest Association None Woodland Evergreen woodland Extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Natural/Seminatural extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Sclerophyllous extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: Several other Q. agrifolia associations have been identified with a subdominance of Umbellularia californica. These include Q. agrifolia-U. californica/Arctostaphylos glauca-Toxicodendron diversilobum and Q. agrifolia-U. californica/Grass (Evens and San 2005), Q. agrifoliaU. californica/Ceanothus oliganthus (this report), and Q. agrifolia-U. californica/ Heteromeles

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arbutifolia-Quercus berberidifolia (Allen et al. 1991). All these differ in their biogeography and in their environmental factors but are clearly related. All are characteristic of the central and southern coastal portions of California. References: Allen et al. 1991, Evens and San 2005

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Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica/Ceanothus oliganthus Woodland/Forest Association Coast Live Oak-California Bay/Hairy Leaf Ceanothus Woodland/Forest Association Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance Coast Live Oak Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1119

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to steep slopes, often with north-facing aspects at low to mid elevations between 298 and 801 m. Quercus agrifolia and Umbellularia californica are dominant in the tree layer, Ceanothus oliganthus in the understory shrub layer, and a variety of grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 298–801 m, mean 588.3 m Aspect: variable but often northeast Slope: range 4–35 degrees, mean 23.2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable; bottom to top slopes Litter Cover: range 15–80%, mean 47.5% Small Rock Cover: range 3–25%, mean 10.6% Large Rock Cover: range 0–25%, mean 8.4% Bare Ground: range 5–15%, mean 10.8% Parent Material: igneous, depositional, or sedimentary Soil Texture: medium loam to moderately fine sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica/Ceanothus oliganthus Woodland/Forest form an open to intermittent tree layer (18–38%, mean 32.4%) with hardwoods at 5–10 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (6–45%, mean 26.1%) at 0–10 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (0–25%, mean 2.9%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 40–90%, mean cover is 59.6%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Quercus agrifolia and Umbellularia californica. Juglans californica is occasionally included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and is dominated by Ceanothus oliganthus. Heteromeles arbutifolia is often included. Quercus berberidifolia, Mimulus aurantiacus, Adenostoma sparsifolium, and Ribes malvaceum are occasionally present in low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and occasionally includes Dryopteris arguta, Piptatherum miliaceum, Leymus condensatus, Melica imperfecta, and Silene gallica in low cover.

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Quercus agrifolia-Umbellularia californica/Ceanothus oliganthus Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T UMCA-T JUCA-T Tree Understory UMCA-M JUCA-M Shrub CEOL HEAR5 QUBE5 MIAU ADSP RIMA PRIL RHOV TODI ARGL3 CESP MAFA MALA6 DERI ADFA GAVE2 LEFR RHIL Herb DRAR3 PIMI3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Umbellularia californica Juglans californica

100 56 33

23 6 0.8

12 3 2

35 X X 23 3

Umbellularia californica Juglans californica

44 22

2.3 0.3

0.2 1

10 2

Ceanothus oliganthus Heteromeles arbutifolia Quercus berberidifolia Mimulus aurantiacus Adenostoma sparsifolium Ribes malvaceum Prunus ilicifolia Rhus ovata Toxicodendron diversilobum Arctostaphylos glandulosa Ceanothus spinosus Malacothamnus fasciculatus Malosma laurina Dendromecon rigida Adenostoma fasciculatum Garrya veatchii Lepechinia fragrans Rhamnus ilicifolia

89 67 44 44 44 44 33 33 33 33 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22

16.1 2.3 0.8 0.4 0.3 0.1 1.2 0.5 0.4 0.2 0.8 0.4 0.3 0.1 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01

6 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 2.5 1 1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

40 X X 10 5 2.5 1 0.2 8 4 2.5 1 5 3 2 1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Dryopteris arguta Piptatherum miliaceum

22 22

0.9 0.1

0.2 0.2

7.5 1

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Baccharis plummerae was found in 1 of 9 surveys of this plant community, which is assumed to be the rare subspecies B. p. subsp. plummerae. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-1-3. Global rank is G3T3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 5 of 9 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Lepechinia fragrans was found in 2 of 9 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004).

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Nonnative Species: Piptatherum miliaceum, Silene gallica Samples Used in Description: (n = 9) AA0473cc, AA1226, rap0282m, rap0284, rap0696m, rap0777m, rap0784, rap2425, rap2836 Comments: This association is characteristic of the more inland or upper elevation mixed oak and bay woodlands of the project area. In general, Ceanothus oliganthus does not occur much below 615 m in the main portion of the Santa Monica Mountains, thus the combination of these species is often found on shaded upper slopes and in upper canyons. In the less coastal Simi Hills, this association may occur at lower elevations. Phases: None COMMON NAME

Coast Live Oak-California Bay/Hairy Leaf Ceanothus Woodland/Forest Association SYNONYM None PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS Woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS Evergreen woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP Extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP Natural/Seminatural extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland FORMATION Sclerophyllous extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland ALLIANCE Quercus agrifolia Woodland/Forest Alliance CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL: 2 ECOLOGICAL REGIONS:

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK:

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description.

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Comments: Several other Q. agrifolia associations have been identified with a subdominance of Umbellularia californica. These include Q. agrifolia-U. californica/Arctostaphylos glauca-Toxicodendron diversilobum and Q. agrifolia-U. californica/Grass (Evens and San 2005), Q. agrifoliaU. californica (this report), and Q. agrifolia-U. californica/Heteromeles arbutifolia-Q. berberidifolia (Allen et al. 1991). All these differ in their biogeography and in their environmental factors but are clearly related. All are characteristic of the central and southern coastal portions of California. References: Allen et al. 1991, Evens and San 2004

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Quercus lobata/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association Valley Oak/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association Quercus lobata Woodland/Forest Alliance Valley Oak Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1321

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on flat to steep slopes with variable aspect at low elevations between 230 and 418 m. It is dominated by Quercus lobata in the tree layer, and various herbs and grasses, such as Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, and Lactuca serriola, in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 230–418 m, mean 297 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 0–35 degrees, mean 12.8 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable but more often concave; bottom to top slopes Litter Cover: range 25–85%, mean 55.8% Small Rock Cover: range 0–25%, mean 7.8% Large Rock Cover: range 0–5%, mean 1.1% Bare Ground: range 0–63%, mean 21.1% Parent Material: often depositional, occasionally sedimentary or igneous Soil Texture: medium loam to fine clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus lobata/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest form a sparse to intermittent tree layer (4–41%, mean 15.8%) with hardwoods at 2–15 m tall, a sparse shrub layer (0–5%, mean 1%) at 0–5 m tall, and an open to intermittent herbaceous layer (16–53%, mean 28.3%) at 0–2 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 20–60%, mean cover is 42.3%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Quercus lobata. Quercus agrifolia is occasionally included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse and infrequently includes species such as Baccharis salicifolia and Salvia leucophylla. The herbaceous layer is dominated by nonnative species, characteristically including Brassica nigra and Bromus diandrus. Other herbs often include Lactuca serriola, Bromus sp., Erodium sp., and other grasses and forbs.

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Quercus lobata/Annual Grass-Herb Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QULO-T QUAG-T JUCA-T Tree Understory QULO-M Herb BRNI BRDI3 LASE AVFA MAPA5 CEME2 HORDE BRHO2 HIIN3 LECO12 MEIN2

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus lobata Quercus agrifolia Juglans californica

83 33 25

12.4 4 0.2 0.2 1.2 1

35 X X 1 12

Quercus lobata

25

1.1

4

5

Brassica nigra Bromus diandrus Lactuca serriola Avena fatua Malva parviflora Centaurea melitensis Hordeum Bromus hordeaceus Hirschfeldia incana Leymus condensatus Melilotus indicus

83 75 67 33 33 25 25 25 25 25 25

8 6.1 1 3.4 0.4 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.1

4 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

15 15 4 30 3 5 3 1 1 1 1

X X X X X X X X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Dudleya cymosa was found in 1 of 12 surveys of this plant community, which could be one of the rare subspecies such as D. C. subsp. ovatifolia, D. C. subsp. marcescens, or D. C. subsp. agourensis. Regionally, the park considers these three species as Rare. CNPS ranks them as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 3-2-3. Global rank is G5T2 or G5T1, and state rank is S2.2 or S1.2. Federal listing is Threatened, and state listing is none or Rare (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 3 of 12 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Lactuca serriola, Avena fatua, Malva parviflora, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus hordeaceus, Hirschfeldia incana, Melilotus indicus, Avena, Erodium moschatum, Erodium cicutarium, Piptatherum miliaceum, Centaurea solstitialis, Medicago polymorpha, Erodium, Bromus madritensis, Arundo donax, Carduus pycnocephalus, Conyza canadensis, Foeniculum vulgare, Lolium, Nicotiana glauca, Rumex crispus Samples Used in Description: (n = 12) AA0355, AA0541, AA0685, AA1133, rap1240, rap1496, rap1497, rap1498, rap2245, rap2314, rap2379, rap2631 Comments: Two associations of this alliance occur in the study area. Both represent the southernmost representation of this alliance. Interestingly, both associations also are represented throughout much of the full range of this alliance, occurring far north into northern California. The association name has been modified somewhat from Allen et al. (1991), where it was called Q. lobata/Grass. The renaming here suggests that it also includes annual forbs as well as grasses.

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Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Valley Oak/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association Valley Oak/Grass (Allen et al. 1991) Woodland Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Quercus lobata Woodland/Forest Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is known from northern, central, and southern coastal California from Mendocino to Los Angeles counties inland to Contra Costa, Santa Clara, San Benito, and Kern counties. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: The association occurs on mostly loamy soils of granitic or sedimentary parent material. It occurs on all aspects with slope usually < 35% with elevation below 1,710 m. Vegetation Description: Valley oak is the dominant tree in the overstory in open to moderately open woodlands. Shrub species are rarely present, and grasses are in high abundance. Comments: See local description. References: Allen et al. 1991, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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Quercus lobata-Quercus agrifolia/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association Valley Oak-Coast Live Oak/Annual Grass Herb Woodland/Forest Association Quercus lobata Woodland/Forest Alliance Valley Oak Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1323

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to steep slopes with variable aspects at low elevations between 236 and 465 m. It is dominated by Quercus agrifolia and Quercus lobata in the tree layer and Brassica nigra in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 236–465 m, mean 337 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–35 degrees, mean 17.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable but more often concave; bottom to top slopes Litter Cover: range 20–85%, mean 58.6% Small Rock Cover: range 1–30%, mean 7.2% Large Rock Cover: range 0–8%, mean 1.5% Bare Ground: range 2–50%, mean 17.8% Parent Material: often sedimentary, occasionally depositional Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam to fine clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus lobata-Quercus agrifolia/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest form a sparse to continuous tree layer (0–67%, mean 22.7%) with hardwoods at 5–15 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (0–47%, mean 6.7%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse to intermittent herbaceous layer (1–60%, mean 26.3%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 27–70%, mean cover is 51.5%. In this association, the tree layer is codominated by Quercus agrifolia and Quercus lobata. Juglans californica is occasionally included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and occasionally includes Salvia leucophylla, Artemisia californica, Sambucus mexicana, and Hazardia squarrosa. The herbaceous layer is diverse and often includes Brassica nigra and Bromus diandrus. Other herbs occasionally include Hirschfeldia incana, Centaurea melitensis, Lactuca serriola, Eriogonum elongatum, Bromus hordeaceus, Lessingia filaginifolia, Leymus condensatus, and Marrubium vulgare.

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Quercus lobata-Quercus agrifolia/Annual Grass-Herb Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T QULO-T JUCA-T Tree Understory QUAG-M Shrub SALE3 ARCA11 SAME5 HASQ2 Herb BRNI BRDI3 HIIN3 CEME2 LASE EREL6 BRHO2 LEFI11 LECO12 MAVU

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Quercus lobata Juglans californica

100 12.3 1 100 10.3 2 28 1.2 0.2

47 X X 20 X X 9

Quercus agrifolia

33

0.4

0.2

2.5

Salvia leucophylla Artemisia californica Sambucus mexicana Hazardia squarrosa

39 33 33 22

1.9 1.2 0.1 0.6

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

17 16 1 8

Brassica nigra Bromus diandrus Hirschfeldia incana Centaurea melitensis Lactuca serriola Eriogonum elongatum Bromus hordeaceus Lessingia filaginifolia Leymus condensatus Marrubium vulgare

78 67 39 39 28 28 22 22 22 22

4.8 7.9 1.8 1.5 0.3 0.2 0.6 0.2 0.1 0.1

0.2 1 2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

20 28 10 13 2.5 2.5 5 2.5 1 1

X X X X X X X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 18 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 7 of 18 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Hirschfeldia incana, Centaurea melitensis, Lactuca serriola, Bromus hordeaceus, Marrubium vulgare, Medicago polymorpha, Avena fatua, Carduus pycnocephalus, Cirsium vulgare, Avena, Melilotus indicus, Erodium cicutarium, Centaurea solstitialis, Lolium, Malva parviflora, Bromus madritensis, Salsola tragus, Galium aparine, Nicotiana glauca, Silybum marianum, Verbascum blattaria Samples Used in Description: (n = 18) AA0322cc, AA0539, AA0540, AA0792, AA1132, rap1241, rap1314, rap1434m, rap1505, rap1507, rap2450, rap2580, rap2628, rap2632, rap2676, rap2745, rap2796, rap2798 Comments: This association is characterized by codominance of valley and coast live oak with a largely nonnative annual grass and herb understory. Two associations of this alliance occur in the study C1188-1/c

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area. Both represent the southernmost representation of this alliance. Interestingly, both associations also are represented throughout much of the full range of this alliance, occurring far north into northern California. The association name has been modified somewhat from Allen et al. (1991), where it was called Quercus lobata-Q. agrifolia/Grass. The renaming here suggests that it also includes annual forbs as well as grasses. Phases: None COMMON NAME PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION

Valley Oak-Coast Live Oak/Annual Grass Herb Woodland/Forest Association Woodland Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland

ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Quercus lobata Woodland/Forest Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is known from central California to southern California ranging from Santa Clara County to Los Angeles County and inland to Kern, Merced, San Benito, and Santa Clara counties. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: The association usually occurs on deep clay soils at elevations ranging from near sea level to more than 1,000 m (in the Tehachapi Mountains and northern coast range). Vegetation Description: These are moderately open woodlands to very open woodlands (10–50% tree cover), with a shared dominance of Q. lobata and Q. agrifolia along with a largely herbaceous understory of grasses and herbs. Comments: It remains to be seen if the presence of certain southern California shrubs, such as Salvia leucophylla, in about one-third of the samples is sufficient to differentiate the local stands from other similar stands in northern and central California. References: Allen et al. 1989, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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Quercus lobata-Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Association Valley Oak-Arroyo Willow (provisional) Woodland/Forest Association Quercus lobata Woodland/Forest Alliance Valley Oak Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1324

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to moderate slopes with variable aspect at low elevations between 230 and 318 m. It is dominated by Quercus lobata in the overstory tree layer. Salix lasiolepis is present in either the tree or shrub layer, and Quercus agrifolia is often present in the understory tree layer. Baccharis salicifolia is abundant in the understory shrub layer, and a variety of grasses and forbs is found in the herbaceous layer. This is considered a provisional association because only three samples of this type have been collected. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 230–318 m, mean 239 m Aspect: variable or flat/none Slope: range 2–15 degrees, mean 6.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): concave; bottom to lower slopes Litter Cover: range 35–65%, mean 55% Small Rock Cover: range 5–8%, mean 7% Large Rock Cover: range 2–2%, mean 2% Bare Ground: range 10–35%, mean 20% Parent Material: depositional or sedimentary Soil Texture: medium loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus lobata-Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest form an open to intermittent tree layer (25–60%, mean 42.3%) with hardwoods at 5–15 m tall, a sparse to open shrub layer (2–11%, mean 7.7%) at 0–2 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (2–25%, mean 12%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 60–65%, mean cover is 62%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Quercus lobata. Salix lasiolepis is found in the tree or shrub layer with moderate to abundant cover. Quercus agrifolia is found in low cover in the understory tree layer, and Salix laevigata is occasionally included in the tree layer. The shrub layer is sparse to open and often includes Baccharis salicifolia and Baccharis pilularis. The herbaceous layer is simple and occasionally includes Bromus diandrus and Rubus ursinus.

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Quercus lobata-Salix lasiolepis Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QULO-T SALA3-T JUCA-T PLRA QUAG-T Tree Understory QUAG-M SALA6-T SCMO WASHI QULO-L Shrub BASA4 BAPI SALA6-M SAME5 RHCA RHOV ROCA2 SALE3 Herb BRDI3 RUUR AMPS LASE RONA2 TYPHA SIMA3 PIMI3 CLEL HIIN3 MAMA8 MEIN2 URDI VIVI

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus lobata Salix laevigata Juglans californica Platanus racemosa Quercus agrifolia

100 18.3 15 33 2.5 7.5 33 0.8 2.5 33 0.8 2.5 33 0.8 2.5

25 X X 7.5 2.5 2.5 2.5

Quercus agrifolia Salix lasiolepis Schinus molle Washingtonia Quercus lobata

67 33 33 33 33

2.6 7.3 0.8 0.8 0.3

0.2 22 2.5 2.5 1

7.5 22 2.5 2.5 1

Baccharis salicifolia Baccharis pilularis Salix lasiolepis Sambucus mexicana Rhamnus californica Rhus ovata Rosa californica Salvia leucophylla

67 67 33 33 33 33 33 33

4.2 1.2 8.3 1.3 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.3

5 1 25 4 2.5 2.5 2.5 1

7.5 2.5 25 4 2.5 2.5 2.5 1

Bromus diandrus Rubus ursinus Ambrosia psilostachya Lactuca serriola Rorippa nasturtiumaquaticum Typha Silybum marianum Piptatherum miliaceum Clarkia elegans Hirschfeldia incana Marah macrocarpus Melilotus indicus Urtica dioica Vicia villosa

33 33 33 33 33

1.7 1.7 0.8 0.8 0.8

5 5 2.5 2.5 2.5

5 5 2.5 2.5 2.5

33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33

0.8 0.7 0.3 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1

2.5 2 1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

2.5 2 1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

X X

X

X X

X X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 1 of 3 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004).

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Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Lactuca serriola, Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum, Schinus molle, Silybum marianum, Piptatherum miliaceum, Hirschfeldia incana, Melilotus indicus, Vicia villosa Samples Used in Description: (n = 3) AA0102cc, AA0165cc, rap1715m Comments: Locally, the presence of arroyo and red willow in these stands may be relatively recent and a result of urban runoff. Phases: None COMMON NAME PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Valley Oak-Arroyo Willow (provisional) Woodland/Forest Association Woodland Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Quercus lobata Woodland/Forest Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G2S2?

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This provisional association is likely to occur elsewhere within the range of the Quercus lobata Alliance. Many stands of Q. lobata in the Sacramento Valley are true riparian stands. Although no associations have been defined with Q. lobata and S. lasiolepis, it is likely that this association

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occurs elsewhere in the south and central coast ranges of California and possibly in the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys as well. References: Holland 1986, Vaghti and Greco 2005

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Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Suballiance Red Willow-Arroyo Willow Woodland/Forest Suballiance Salix laevigata Woodland/Forest Alliance Red Willow Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1410

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on flat to somewhat steep slopes with variable aspects at elevations between 69 and 334 m. It is dominated by Salix laevigata and S. lasiolepis in both the tree and shrub layers. A variety of grasses and forbs occurs in the herbaceous layer at low cover. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Dry Inland, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Western Fog Zone, and Immediate Coast of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 69–334 m, mean 224 m Aspect: variable but more often flat Slope: range 0–15 degrees, mean 5.5 degrees Topography (micro; macro): concave or flat; bottom to lower slopes Litter Cover: range 40–90%, mean 68.3% Small Rock Cover: range 0–25%, mean 9.3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 4.3% Bare Ground: range 0–20%, mean 12.5% Parent Material: often depositional, occasionally sedimentary or igneous Soil Texture: coarse loamy sand to moderately fine silty clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest form a sparse to intermittent tree layer (0–66%, mean 37.9%) with conifers at 0–10 m tall and hardwoods at 0–10 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (0–60%, mean 11.9%) at 0–10 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (0–25%, mean 4.7%) at 0–5 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 30–65%, mean cover is 54.4%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Salix laevigata and S. lasiolepis. Quercus agrifolia occasionally is included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and occasionally includes Baccharis pilularis, Eriogonum fasciculatum, and Baccharis salicifolia. The herbaceous layer includes a variety of grasses and forbs at low cover and frequency including Piptatherum miliaceum, Arundo donax, Typha sp., Bromus sp., Equisetum sp., and Leymus condensatus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis Suballiance Layer Code Tree Overstory SALIX-T QUAG-T SCMO Shrub BAPI ERFA2 BASA4 Herb PIMI3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Salix laevigata/S. lasiolepis Quercus agrifolia Schinus molle

71 36 21

25.5 17 1.4 2 1 2

59 X 8 8

Baccharis pilularis Eriogonum fasciculatum Baccharis salicifolia

36 21 21

1.7 0.4 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2

10 3 1

Piptatherum miliaceum

21

0.3

0.2

2

X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 3 of 14 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Schinus molle, Piptatherum miliaceum, Arundo donax, Hirschfeldia incana, Robinia, Ricinus communis, Cortaderia, Tamarix, Bromus diandrus, Foeniculum vulgare, Myoporum laetum, Phoenix canariensis, Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum, Ulmus parvifolia Samples Used in Description: (n = 14) AA0144cc, AA0354, AA0422, AA0501, AA0507, AA0571, rap1744, rap2151, rap2152, rap2231m, rap2347, rap2577, rap2719, rap2720 Comments: Salix laevigata and S. lasiolepis were sometimes difficult to identify in the field, so their cover estimates were combined into one value in the species list. This is considered a suballiance in which further variation must be defined via complete species inventory. Urban runoff may contribute to the existence of this type. Phases: None COMMON NAME PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Red Willow-Arroyo Willow Woodland/Forest Suballiance Woodland Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Salix laevigata Woodland/Forest Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S3?

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Global Description Distribution: This vegetation type has also been described in northern California from the Suisun Marsh, and an association of these two willow species with an understory species associate is described in southern California. It likely occurs in many areas of California and potentially adjacent states. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: This vegetation type occurs in permanently to intermittently flooded channels, stream banks, and sloughs. Vegetation Description: In Suisun Marsh and southern California, an association is defined by a codominance of S. laevigata and S. lasiolepis. Comments: This mixed red and arroyo willow type as defined in the Santa Monica Mountains clearly needs further definition based on species composition. References: Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005, Keeler-Wolf and Vaghti 2000

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186

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis/Artemisia douglasiana-Rubus ursinus/Annual Grass-Herb Woodland/Forest Association Red Willow-Arroyo Willow/Douglas Mugwort-California Blackberry/Annual Grass-Herb (Provisional) Woodland/Forest Association Salix laevigata Woodland/Forest Alliance Red Willow Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1413

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on flat to gentle slopes with no or variable aspect at low elevations between 237 and 325 m. Salix laevigata and S. lasiolepis dominate in the tree, understory tree, and shrub layers. Bromus diandrus, Rubus ursinus, Artemisia douglasiana, and Marrubium vulgare are constants in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland and Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 237–325 m, mean 293 m Aspect: variable but more often flat Slope: range 0–3 degrees, mean 1.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat or concave; bottom slopes Litter Cover: range 60–85%, mean 73.3% Small Rock Cover: range 0–10%, mean 4% Large Rock Cover: range 0–3%, mean 1% Bare Ground: range 5–30%, mean 15% Parent Material: depositional or sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine silty clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis/Artemisia douglasiana-Rubus ursinus/Annual GrassHerb Woodland/Forest form an intermittent tree layer (33–40%, mean 35.3%) with hardwoods at 5–15 m tall, a sparse to open shrub layer (0–15%, mean 5%) at 0.5–5 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (5–15%, mean 11%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 43–51%, mean cover is 47.3%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Salix, most likely both Salix laevigata and S. lasiolepis. Quercus lobata is occasionally included in this layer and the understory at low cover, and Quercus agrifolia is often in the understory at low cover. The sparse to open shrub layer is dominated by Salix sp., and Baccharis salicifolia and Salvia spathacea are often present. The herbaceous layer is diverse and includes a variety of grasses and forbs, in which Bromus diandrus, Rubus ursinus, Artemisia douglasiana, and Marrubium vulgare characteristically occur.

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Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis/Artemisia douglasiana-Rubus ursinus/Annual Grass-Herb Association Layer Code Tree Overstory SALIX-T QULO-T Tree Understory QUAG-L QUAG-M QULO-L QULO-M SALIX Shrub SALIX-M BASA4 SASP3 TODI ARCA11 BAPI GERAN LONIC RIMA SALE3 SAME5 Herb BRDI3 RUUR ARDO3 MAVU PIMI3 BRNI BRCA5 CIVU GAAP2 MAMA8 MEIN2 RUCR SOAS SOOL CLEMA EUTE10 VELA AMPS ANAR ANCO2 BRHO2 ERCI6 EUCH

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Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Salix laevigata/S. lasiolepis Quercus lobata

100 29.7 19 33 0.3 1

39 X X 1

Quercus agrifolia Quercus agrifolia Quercus lobata Quercus lobata Salix laevigata/S. lasiolepis

67 67 33 33 33

0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Salix laevigata/S. lasiolepis Baccharis salicifolia Salvia spathacea Toxicodendron diversilobum Artemisia californica Baccharis pilularis Geranium Lonicera Ribes malvaceum Salvia leucophylla Sambucus mexicana

67 67 67 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33

5.3 0.1 0.1 1.3 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1

2 0.2 0.2 4 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

14 X 0.2 0.2 4 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Bromus diandrus Rubus ursinus Artemisia douglasiana Marrubium vulgare Piptatherum miliaceum Brassica nigra Bromus carinatus Cirsium vulgare Galium aparine Marah macrocarpus Melilotus indicus Rumex crispus Sonchus asper Sonchus oleraceus Clematis Euphorbia terracina Verbena lasiostachys Ambrosia psilostachya Anagallis arvensis Anthemis cotula Bromus hordeaceus Erodium cicutarium Eucrypta chrysanthemifolia

100 100 100 100 67 67 67 67 67 67 67 67 67 67 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33

4.7 4.1 1.3 0.2 2.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1

0.2 0.2 1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 1 1 1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

8 11 2 0.2 6 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 1 1 1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

188

X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

X X X X

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

JUNCU Juncus 33 0.1 0.2 LASE Lactuca serriola 33 0.1 0.2 MELIL Melilotus 33 0.1 0.2 PHAU4 Pholistoma auritum 33 0.1 0.2 Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis/Artemisia douglasiana-Rubus ursinus/Annual Grass-Herb Association Layer Code Species Name POACXX Poaceae RONA2 Rorippa nasturtiumaquaticum SISYM Sisymbrium SONCH Sonchus TYPHA Typha URDI Urtica dioica VEAN2 Veronica anagallis-aquatica VULPI Vulpia

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

X X

Con Avg Min Max A C N 33 0.1 0.2 0.2 33 0.1 0.2 0.2 X 33 33 33 33 33 33

0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

X X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Marrubium vulgare, Piptatherum miliaceum, Brassica nigra, Cirsium vulgare, Galium aparine, Melilotus indicus, Rumex crispus, Sonchus asper, Sonchus oleraceus, Euphorbia terracina, Bromus hordeaceus, Anagallis arvensis, Anthemis cotula, Erodium cicutarium, Lactuca serriola, Melilotus, Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum, Sisymbrium, Sonchus, Veronica anagallis-aquatica Samples Used in Description: (n = 3) rap2752rlv, rap2856rlv, rap2857rlv Comments: Salix laevigata and S. lasiolepis were sometimes difficult to identify in the field, so their cover estimates were combined into one value in the species list. This association should remain provisional until resampling can occur in which all willow species are clearly identified. The presence of Quercus agrifolia seedlings and saplings in two-thirds of the plots suggests a relationship to the Quercus agrifolia-Salix lasiolepis Association of the coast live oak alliance. Phases: None COMMON NAME

PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

C1188-1/c

Red Willow-Arroyo Willow/Douglas MugwortCalifornia Blackberry/Annual Grass-Herb (Provisional) Woodland/Forest Association Woodland Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Salix laevigata Woodland/Forest Alliance 2

189

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4?

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region; however, a comparable association of S. laevigata-S. lasiolepis/Artemisia douglasiana is defined in western Riverside and San Diego counties. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: The comparable association occurs in southern California within intermittently to seasonally flooded riparian corridors of lower elevations from 100 to 1,540 m on mixed alluvial sediments. Vegetation Description: Salix laevigata occurs as a tree overstory dominant, and S. lasiolepis occurs as a tree overstory codominant or shrub understory dominant. Other trees infrequently occur at low cover including Platanus racemosa, Populus fremontii, and Quercus agrifolia. Common understory shrubs include Baccharis salicifolia, Rubus ursinus, and Rosa californica. A wide variety of herb species occupy the understory, with Artemisia douglasiana characteristically present. Other herbs often occur including Mimulus guttatus, Ambrosia psilostachya, Bromus diandrus, B. hordeaceus, Hirschfeldia incana, Lolium multiflorum, and Urtica dioica. Comments: The association defined in this Santa Monica Mountains report is comparable to the S. laevigataS. lasiolepis/Artemisia douglasiana Association defined from western Riverside and San Diego counties, and these two could probably collapse into one association. References: Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005

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190

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis/Baccharis salicifolia Woodland/Forest Association Red Willow-Arroyo Willow/Mule Fat Woodland/Forest Association Salix laevigata Woodland/Forest Alliance Red Willow Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1412

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to somewhat steep slopes with little influence of aspect (being flat to variable in nature) and at elevations between 73 and 303 m. It is dominated by Salix laevigata in the overstory tree layer and Salix lasiolepis in the understory tree layer. It has an open cover of Baccharis salicifolia in the understory shrub layer and an open cover of various grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland, Simi Hills Inland, Immediate Coast, and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 73–303 m, mean 241.8 m Aspect: variable but often flat Slope: range 2–15 degrees, mean 5.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat or concave; bottom slopes Litter Cover: range 55–80%, mean 70% Small Rock Cover: range 1–30%, mean 12% Large Rock Cover: range 1–20%, mean 6.3% Bare Ground: range 10–20%, mean 15% Parent Material: often depositional, occasionally sedimentary Soil Texture: coarse loamy sand to fine sandy clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis/Baccharis salicifolia Woodland/Forest form an open to intermittent tree layer (14–50%, mean 25.1%) with hardwoods at 5–10 m tall, a sparse to open shrub layer (4–28%, mean 14.3%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (2–18%, mean 9.9%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 42–51%, mean cover is 47.3%. In this association, the overstory tree layer is dominated by Salix laevigata. Salix lasiolepis is dominant in the understory tree layer. The shrub layer is sparse to open and is dominated by Baccharis salicifolia. The herbaceous layer is diverse and often includes Hirschfeldia incana and Artemisia douglasiana. Other herbs occasionally include Typha sp., Piptatherum miliaceum, Carduus pycnocephalus, and Foeniculum vulgare.

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Salix laevigata-Salix lasiolepis/Baccharis salicifolia Association Layer Code Tree Overstory SALA3-T PLRA QULO-T QUAG-T Tree Understory SALA6-T Shrub BASA4 BAPI Herb HIIN3 ARDO3 TYPHA PIMI3 UNHE CAPY2 FOVU

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Salix laevigata Platanus racemosa Quercus lobata Quercus agrifolia

71 43 29 29

12.1 0.6 0.9 0.6

10 0.2 0.2 0.2

23 X 2 6 4

Salix lasiolepis

71

7.4

5

17 X

Baccharis salicifolia Baccharis pilularis

100 11.1 3 29 0.2 0.2

25 X X 1

Hirschfeldia incana Artemisia douglasiana Typha Piptatherum miliaceum Unknown Herbs/Forbs Carduus pycnocephalus Foeniculum vulgare

57 57 43 43 29 29 29

8 3 5 3 7 1 0.2

1.3 1.3 1.3 0.5 1.3 0.2 0.1

0.2 1 0.2 0.2 2 0.2 0.2

X

X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Dudleya cymosa was found in 1 of 7 surveys of this plant community, which could be one of the rare subspecies such as D. C. subsp. ovatifolia, D. C. subsp. marcescens, or D. C. subsp. agourensis. Regionally, the park considers these three species as Rare. CNPS ranks them as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 3-2-3. Global rank is G5T2 or G5T1, and state rank is S2.2 or S1.2. Federal listing is Threatened, and state listing is none or Rare (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Hirschfeldia incana, Piptatherum miliaceum, Carduus pycnocephalus, Foeniculum vulgare, Bromus diandrus, Centaurea melitensis, Conyza canadensis, Schinus molle, Brassica nigra, Conium maculatum, Dactylis glomerata, Ricinus communis, Bromus hordeaceus, Marrubium vulgare, Melilotus albus, Sonchus Samples Used in Description: (n = 7) AA0582, AA0658, rap1716, rap2491, rap2643, rap2672, rap2685 Comments: The presence of Platanus racemosa in almost half the plots and the ubiquitous presence of Baccharis salicifolia suggest an ecological setting similar to the Platanus racemosa-Quercus agrifolia/Baccharis salicifolia/Artemisia douglasiana Woodland/Forest Association. The presence of Salix species suggests an increase in water availability from the Platanus-dominated analog mentioned above. This water may be the result of nonnatural augmentation from runoff from irrigation of private homes, golf courses, wastewater treatment facilities, and so forth. Phases: None COMMON NAME

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

None Woodland Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Salix laevigata Woodland/Forest Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory; however, similar associations are likely to exist elsewhere in California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: The association in this report has all willow species identified and is clearly related to the other Salix laevigata-S. lasiolepis vegetation described in other reports. References: Keeler-Wolf and Vaghti 2000, Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Alliance Aroyo Willow Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1430

Local Description Summary: Five stands of this woodland/forest alliance occur usually on relatively flat surfaces with little or no exposure at low elevations between 13 and 251 m. It is dominated by Salix lasiolepis as a small tree in the overstory layer. Baccharis pilularis and Malosma laurina occur often in the understory shrub layer, and Typha sp. often occurs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: The five surveys classified to the alliance level occur in the Immediate Coast and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area; however, other association data shows the alliance occurring within all regions of the study area except Eastern Urban. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 13–251 m, mean 149.4 m Aspect: usually none (usually flat), rarely southwest Slope: range 0–35 degrees, mean 6.8 degrees Topography (micro; macro): concave or flat; bottom to lower slope Litter Cover: range 5.0–85%, mean 60.0% Small Rock Cover: range 1–55%, mean 11.8% Large Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 2.2% Bare Ground: range 1–60%, mean 18.8% Parent Material: depositional Soil Texture: sandy to fine silty clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Alliance form an open to intermittent tree layer (0–65%, mean 31.3%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall, an open to intermittent shrub layer (0–58%, mean 12.8%) at 0–10 m tall, and an open to intermittent herbaceous layer (0–37%, mean 6.6%) at 0–2 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 15–78%, mean cover is 49.3%. In this alliance, the tree layer is dominated by Salix lasiolepis as a small tree. Other trees occur infrequently at low cover including Juglans californica, Alnus rhombifolia, Platanus racemesa, and Washingtonia. The shrub layer is open to intermittent and often includes Baccharis pilularis and Malosma laurina. Occasionally, the shrub layer includes Myoporum laetum, Ricinus communis, and B. salicifolia. The herbaceous layer is diverse and may be dominated by Typha and/or Scirpus spp. Other herbs include Leymus condensatus, Arundo donax, and many others.

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194

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salix lasiolepis Alliance Layer Code Tree Overstory SALIX-T JUCA-T ALRH2-T PLRA EUCAL-T Tree Understory SALA6-T WASHI Shrub BAPI MALA6 MYLA5 RICO3 BASA4 SALA6-M TODI ARCA11 ATLE ENCA HEAR5 ISME5 NIGL Herb TYPHA LECO12 ARDO4 SCIRP ARDO3 OXALI UNHE BRNI ERODI FOVU AGAVE BRDI3 CHENO LUPIN MASA2 MAPA5 PHCI PIMI3 POOL

C1188-1/c

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Salix Juglans californica Alnus rhombifolia Platanus racemosa Eucalyptus

20 20 20 20 20

7.0 35.0 35.0 1.5 7.5 7.5 0.2 1.0 1.0 0.2 1.0 1.0 0.0 0.2 0.2

X

Salix lasiolepis Washingtonia

60 20

11.2 4.0 45.0 X 0.4 2.0 2.0

X

Baccharis pilularis Malosma laurina Myoporum laetum Ricinus communis Baccharis salicifolia Salix lasiolepis Toxicodendron diversilobum Artemisia californica Atriplex lentiformis Encelia californica Heteromeles arbutifolia Isocoma menziesii Nicotiana glauca

60 60 40 40 40 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20

2.5 0.2 7.5 1.5 0.2 5.0 0.6 0.2 3.0 0.2 0.2 1.0 0.1 0.2 0.2 3.0 15.0 15.0 0.5 2.5 2.5 0.4 2.0 2.0 0.2 1.0 1.0 0.2 1.0 1.0 0.2 1.0 1.0 0.0 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.2

Typha Leymus condensatus Arundo donax Scirpus Artemisia douglasiana Oxalis Unknown Herbs/Forbs Brassica nigra Erodium Foeniculum vulgare Agave Bromus diandrus Chenopodium Lupinus Malacothrix saxatilis Malva parviflora Phacelia cicutaria Piptatherum miliaceum Portulaca oleracea

60 40 40 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20

7.4 2.0 25.0 X 1.7 2.5 6.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 2.4 12.0 12.0 0.5 2.5 2.5 0.4 2.0 2.0 0.4 2.0 2.0 0.2 1.0 1.0 0.2 1.0 1.0 0.2 1.0 1.0 0.0 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.2

195

X X

X

X

X X X X X

X X X

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 1 of 5 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Arundo donax, Myoporum laetum, Ricinus communis, Brassica nigra, Erodium, Foeniculum vulgare, Bromus diandrus, Eucalyptus, Malva parviflora, Nicotiana glauca, Piptatherum miliaceum, Portulaca oleracea Samples Used in Description: (n = 5) AA0280cc, AA0579, rap0967, rap1124, rap2749m Comments: Five stands were not classified below the alliance level and are represented here (separately from the associations also described). This alliance is typically considered a shrub type in the national vegetation classification, but most stands locally are dominated by trees and warranted description. Most of these five stands sampled locally were associated with higher than normal growing season water as a result of irrigation or runoff. This may have accounted for the relatively high frequency of Typha and Scirpus spp. in the understory. Identification of some willow tree species was uncertain in a minority of samples but was likely to be of this species. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Arroyo Willow None III. Shrubland III.B. Deciduous shrubland III.B.2. Cold-deciduous shrubland III.B.2.N. Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous shrub land III.B.2.N.d. Temporarily flooded cold-deciduous shrubland Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S5

Global Description Distribution: This alliance is locally common along creeks, stream terraces, and seeps in Nevada, southwestern Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, east of the Cascade Mountains in Washington, and California. Nations: United States C1188-1/c

196

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

States or Provinces: AZ, CA, NM, NV, UT, WA Environmental Description: Communities within this alliance occupy stream benches and occasionally seeps. They can form stringer communities along drainages with slopes ranging between 1 to 15%. Elevations range between 1,200 m to 2,490 m. Soils are xeric and developed on alluvium. Water tables were rarely reached within the depth of soil pits, and mottles were not evident because of the coarse soil texture. Vegetation Description: The tall shrub layer is dominated by Salix lasiolepis that forms a dense overstory ranging from 60–100%. Ribes aureum and Rosa woodsii typically form a low shrub layer near the base of the willows. The undergrowth is typically sparse with Clematis ligusticifolia and Smilacina stellata present in minor amounts. Bare ground and/or leaf litter from the willow overstory are characteristic of stands within this alliance. Comments: In California, this is probably the most common willow alliance below 1,000 m west of the SierraCascade and desert divides. It is particularly common along streams and creeks in the California coast ranges. References: Manning and Padgett 1995, NatureServe 2005, Padgett et al. 1989, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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197

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salix lasiolepis/Baccharis salicifolia Woodland/Forest Association Aroyo Willow/Mule Fat Woodland/Forest Association Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Alliance Aroyo Willow Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1432

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to somewhat steep slopes that are often flat and at elevations between 3 and 413 m. It is dominated by Salix lasiolepis in the understory tree layer, Baccharis salicifolia in the understory shrub layer, and a variety of grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland, Western Fog Zone, Immediate Coast, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 3–413 m, mean 187.2 m Aspect: often flat, occasionally variable, northeast or northwest Slope: range 0–15 degrees, mean 5.8 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable but often concave; bottom to upper slopes Litter Cover: range 5–75%, mean 56% Small Rock Cover: range 1–55%, mean 11.2% Large Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 2.2% Bare Ground: range 2–60%, mean 19.5% Parent Material: often depositional, occasionally sedimentary or igneous Soil Texture: silt to fine sandy clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Salix lasiolepis/Baccharis salicifolia Woodland/Forest form a sparse to intermittent tree layer (3–65%, mean 37.7%) with hardwoods at 2–10 m tall, a sparse to open shrub layer (0–30%, mean 9%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (0–14%, mean 6%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 22–78%, mean cover is 50.7%. In this association, Salix lasiolepis dominates in the understory tree layer. Quercus agrifolia is occasionally found in low cover in the overstory tree layer. The shrub layer is sparse to open and is dominated by Baccharis salicifolia. Occasionally, Salix lasiolepis, Baccharis pilularis, and Ricinus communis are also included. The herbaceous layer is diverse and occasionally includes Artemisia douglasiana, Piptatherum miliaceum, Typha, Conium maculatum, Bromus diandrus, Arundo donax, Brassica nigra, and Centaurea melitensis.

C1188-1/c

198

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salix lasiolepis/Baccharis salicifolia Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T PLRA Tree Understory SALA6-T Shrub BASA4 SALA6-M BAPI RICO3 Herb ARDO3 PIMI3 TYPHA COMA2 BRDI3 ARDO4 BRNI CEME2

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Platanus racemosa

33 33

1.3 0.5

0.2 0.2

17 3

Salix lasiolepis

90

30.8

3

Baccharis salicifolia Salix lasiolepis Baccharis pilularis Ricinus communis

86 33 29 24

3.5 3.2 0.7 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

17 23 7.5 1

Artemisia douglasiana Piptatherum miliaceum Typha Conium maculatum Bromus diandrus Arundo donax Brassica nigra Centaurea melitensis

48 33 33 29 29 29 29 29

1.7 0.4 0.4 0.5 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

9 6 3 8 8 5 3 0.2

55 X X X

X

X X X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 5 of 21 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Piptatherum miliaceum, Conium maculatum, Bromus diandrus, Arundo donax, Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Ricinus communis, Hirschfeldia incana, Euphorbia terracina, Foeniculum vulgare, Carduus pycnocephalus, Marrubium vulgare, Schinus molle, Vinca major, Brassica, Melilotus indicus, Sonchus oleraceus, Lactuca serriola, Bromus madritensis, Cirsium vulgare, Lolium, Tropaeolum majus, Conyza canadensis, Myoporum laetum, Acer negundo, Ailanthus altissima, Avena fatua, Cortaderia, Cotoneaster, Melilotus albus, Parthenocissus, Salsola tragus, Senecio mikanioides, Silybum marianum, Sonchus asper, Spartium junceum Samples Used in Description: (n = 21) AA0209cc, AA0246cc, AA0669, AA1127, rap0468, rap0561, rap1360, rap1433, rap1439m, rap1471, rap1483, rap1688, rap1690, rap1750, rap1752, rap1818, rap1916, rap1978, rap2044m, rap2211, rap2315 Comments: The relatively simple species composition and the high proportion of nonnative species suggest that this association represents the more actively disturbed riparian settings locally.

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199

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Aroyo Willow/Mule Fat Woodland/Forest Association None Woodland Deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This association is likely to occur elsewhere in central and southern California. References: None

C1188-1/c

200

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salix lasiolepis/Malosma laurina Woodland/Forest Association Arroyo Willow/Laurel Sumac Woodland/Forest Association Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Alliance Aroyo Willow Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1433

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to steep slopes that are often south facing at elevations between 5 and 250 m. Salix lasiolepis is dominant in the understory tree and/or shrub layers, and Malosma laurina is codominant with the willow in the understory shrub layer. A variety of grasses and forbs, including Leymus condensatus, is dominant in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 5–250 m, mean 99 m Aspect: often southeast and southwest, occasionally northwest Slope: range 4–35 degrees, mean 16.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): concave or flat; bottom to mid slopes Litter Cover: range 70–70%, mean 70% Small Rock Cover: range 1–25%, mean 11.8% Large Rock Cover: range 0–7%, mean 2.4% Bare Ground: range 1–30%, mean 14.2% Parent Material: sedimentary, igneous, or depositional Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy clay loam to moderately fine silty clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Salix lasiolepis/Malosma laurina Woodland/Forest form a sparse to intermittent tree layer (0–49%, mean 15%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (9–58%, mean 31.2%) at 0–10 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (0–15%, mean 3.5%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 30–62%, mean cover is 49.2%. In this association, Salix lasiolepis is dominant in the understory tree and/or shrub layers. Juglans californica is abundant in the understory. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and is codominated by Malosma laurina as well as the willow. Frequently, Baccharis pilularis, Baccharis salicifolia, Artemisia californica, and Encelia californica are also included. The herbaceous layer is diverse and occasionally includes Leymus condensatus, Juncus sp., Rubus ursinus, Centaurea melitensis, and Distichlis spicata in low cover.

C1188-1/c

201

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salix lasiolepis/Malosma laurina Association Layer Code Tree Overstory PLRA Tree Understory JUCA-M SALA6-T SAME5 Shrub MALA6 BAPI BASA4 ARCA11 SALA6-M ENCA MAFA SAME3 HEAR5 TODI Herb LECO12

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Platanus racemosa

33

0.5

1

2

Juglans californica Salix lasiolepis Sambucus mexicana

50 33 33

1.9 6.3 0.7

0.2 12 0.2

11 26 4

Malosma laurina Baccharis pilularis Baccharis salicifolia Artemisia californica Salix lasiolepis Encelia californica Malacothamnus fasciculatus Salvia mellifera Heteromeles arbutifolia Toxicodendron diversilobum

100 9.5 2 67 1.4 0.2 67 0.9 0.2 67 0.6 0.2 50 10.8 5 50 1.4 0.2 50 0.5 0.2 33 1 0.2 33 0.7 1 33 0.4 0.2

25 X X 4 2 2 30 X 7 2 6 3 2

Leymus condensatus

67

3

1

0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 3 of 6 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Foeniculum vulgare, Arundo donax, Avena fatua, Brassica nigra, Cakile maritima, Carduus pycnocephalus, Cortaderia, Marrubium vulgare, Myoporum laetum, Nicotiana glauca, Pennisetum setaceum, Salsola tragus, Tamarix Samples Used in Description: (n = 6) rap0660, rap1017, rap1064, rap1243, rap2263, rap2311 Comments: The combination of the typically upland xerophytic Malosma laurina with the hydrophytic Salix lasiolepis is indicative of disturbed alluvial settings on relatively steep slopes (relative to most riparian settings) with southerly aspects. This is often on steep cliffs in slumps or below houses where water availability is higher than normal because of urban runoff. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS

C1188-1/c

Arroyo Willow/Laurel Sumac Woodland/Forest Association None Woodland Deciduous woodland

202

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Cold-deciduous woodland Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous woodland Cold-deciduous woodland Salix lasiolepis Woodland/Forest Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3?

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: None References: None

C1188-1/c

203

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Schinus molle Woodland/Forest Alliance Peruvian Peppertree Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 9550

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest alliance occurs on somewhat steep to steep slopes with no or variable exposure at low elevations between 186 and 300 m. It is dominated by the introduced Schinus molle in the tree layer. The understory shrub layer has a variety of fast growing species such as Baccharis pilularis, and the herbaceous layer is dominated by nonnative grasses and herbs. Distribution: This alliance is sampled in the Dry Inland, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 186–300 m, mean 254 m Aspect: none (flat) to variable Slope: range 15–35 degrees, mean 21.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (flat, concave, convex, or undulating); bottom to top Litter Cover: range 20.0–80%, mean 46.3% Small Rock Cover: range 0–45%, mean 19.2% Large Rock Cover: range 0–1%, mean 0.2% Bare Ground: range 10–54%, mean 29.5% Parent Material: sedimentary or depositional Soil Texture: coarse loamy sand to fine sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Schinus molle Woodland/Forest Alliance form an open to intermittent tree layer (3–52%, mean 18.7%) with conifers at 0–10 m tall and hardwoods at 2–10 m tall, an open to intermittent shrub layer (0–36%, mean 10.4%) at 0–5 m tall, and an open to intermittent herbaceous layer (0–40%, mean 10.3%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 27–55%, mean cover is 39%. In this alliance, the tree layer is dominated by Schinus molle as an invasive species. Pinus sp. also has been introduced with low cover. Quercus agrifolia is infrequently included in this layer. The shrub layer is usually open and characterized by Baccharis pilularis at low cover. A variety of other shrubs is occasionally present at low cover including Salvia leucophylla, Artemisia californica, Encelia californica, Eriogonum fasciculatum, and Malosma laurina. The herbaceous layer is simple to diverse including many nonnative species such as Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus madritensis, Brassica nigra, and Carduus pycnocephalus.

C1188-1/c

204

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Schinus molle Alliance Layer Code Tree Overstory SCMO PINUS Tree Understory QUAG-M Shrub BAPI SALE3 ARCA11 ENCA ERFA2 LOSC2 MALA6 NIGL BASA4 SAME5 Herb CEME2 HIIN3 BRMA3 BRNI CAPY2 BRDI3 CAMA24 LASE MAVU

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Schinus molle Pinus

89 56

14.3 2.0 35.0 X X X 0.4 0.2 1.0

Quercus agrifolia

22

0.1

0.2

1.0

Baccharis pilularis Salvia leucophylla Artemisia californica Encelia californica Eriogonum fasciculatum Lotus scoparius Malosma laurina Nicotiana glauca Baccharis salicifolia Sambucus mexicana

78 44 33 33 33 33 33 22 22 22

1.0 0.7 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.6 0.4 0.2

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

6.0 4.0 2.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 0.2 5.0 3.0 2.0

Centaurea melitensis Hirschfeldia incana Bromus madritensis Brassica nigra Carduus pycnocephalus Bromus diandrus Calystegia macrostegia Lactuca serriola Marrubium vulgare

67 44 44 44 33 22 22 22 22

1.6 1.5 0.6 0.6 0.5 1.3 0.0 0.0 0.0

1.0 5.0 0.2 8.0 0.2 2.0 1.0 2.0 0.2 4.0 1.0 11.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

X

X

X X X X X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 1 of 9 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Schinus molle, Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus madritensis, Brassica nigra, Carduus pycnocephalus, Bromus diandrus, Nicotiana glauca, Lactuca serriola, Marrubium vulgare, Carpobrotus chilensis, Rosmarinus officinalis, Acacia redolens, Schinus molle, Olea europaea, Avena fatua, Nerium oleander, Avena, Pennisetum setaceum, Rosa, Salsola tragus, Conyza canadensis, Melilotus albus, Melilotus indicus, Ricinus communis Samples Used in Description: (n = 9) rap1446, rap1930, rap1977, rap2045, rap2048, rap2049, rap2212, rap2213, rap2214 Comments: This is the first time Schinus molle has been identified as an alliance in California. These stands are clearly self-perpetuating and are often found invading Opuntia stands.

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205

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Alliance only None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.1. Tropical or subtropical broad-leaved evergreen shrubland III.A.1.N. Natural/Seminatural tropical or subtropical broad-leaved evergreen shrubland III.A.1.N.a. Tropical or subtropical broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Schinus molle Woodland/Forest Alliance (Provisional) 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS:

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

An introduced species

Global Description Distribution: This alliance is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This is a common introduced tree of central and southern coastal California, originally from the Peruvian Andes. Its seeds occur in fruits that are bird dispersed, and resulting small stands are occasional in south coastal California. It typically forms small open stands with coastal scrub in the more interior portions of the Santa Monica Mountains and Simi Valley areas. Although it is not commonly considered as invasive as the related Schinus terebinthifolius (Brazilian peppertree) that is an introduced alliance in Hawaii, Florida, and Texas, it is clearly reproducing and colonizing on its own in the Santa Monica Mountains region. References: NatureServe 2005

C1188-1/c

206

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Umbellularia californica/Ceanothus oliganthus Woodland/Forest Association California Bay/Hairy Leaf Ceanothus (Provisional) Woodland/Forest Association Umbellularia californica Woodland/Forest Alliance California Bay Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1012

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on steep slopes that are northwest or southeast facing (neutral slopes) at low to mid elevations between 499 and 812 m. It is dominated by Umbellularia californica in the tree layer, Ceanothus oliganthus in the understory shrub layer, and grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 499–812 m, mean 697 m Aspect: often northwest, occasionally southeast Slope: range 27–35 degrees, mean 31.2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable; mid to upper slopes Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: range 0–20%, mean 10% Large Rock Cover: range 0–8%, mean 4.3% Bare Ground: range 0–5%, mean 3.3% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: medium loam to fine clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Umbellularia californica/Ceanothus oliganthus Woodland/Forest form an open to intermittent tree layer (22–50%, mean 34.3%) with hardwoods at 2–10 m tall, an open to intermittent shrub layer (20–40%, mean 28.3%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse to open herbaceous layer (0–10%, mean 2.5%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 58–68%, mean cover is 62.8%. In this association, the overstory and understory tree layers are dominated by Umbellularia californica. Quercus agrifolia is frequently included in the overstory tree layer at relatively low cover. The shrub layer is sparse to open and is dominated by Ceanothus oliganthus, and Heteromeles arbutifolia is also characteristically present in low average cover. Occasionally, Prunus ilicifolia, Lupinus longifolius, and Rhus ovata are also included. The herbaceous layer is simple and includes Leymus condensatus, Bromus madritensis, Clematis, and Pellaea mucronata at low cover and constancy.

C1188-1/c

207

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Umbellularia californica/Ceanothus oliganthus Association Layer Code Tree Overstory UMCA-T QUAG-T JUCA-T Tree Understory UMCA-M Shrub CEOL HEAR5 PRIL LULO RHOV KECO CEME TODI LEFR LONIC QUBE5 ADSP RHIL RIMA Herb LECO12 BRMA3 CLEMA PEMU

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Umbellularia californica Quercus agrifolia Juglans californica

75 75 25

12.8 4.5 0.3

3 1 1

28 X X 12 X 1

Umbellularia californica

50

16.8 32

35 X

Ceanothus oliganthus Heteromeles arbutifolia Prunus ilicifolia Lupinus longifolius Rhus ovata Keckiella cordifolia Ceanothus megacarpus Toxicodendron diversilobum Lepechinia fragrans Lonicera Quercus berberidifolia Adenostoma sparsifolium Rhamnus ilicifolia Ribes malvaceum

100 100 50 50 50 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25

17 3.8 1.5 0.8 0.6 2 0.8 0.5 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.1 0.1

3 1 1 0.2 0.2 8 3 2 1 1 1 0.2 0.2 0.2

27 X X 12 X 5 3 2 8 3 2 1 1 1 0.2 0.2 0.2

Leymus condensatus Bromus madritensis Clematis Pellaea mucronata

25 25 25 25

2.5 0.1 0.1 0.1

10 0.2 0.2 0.2

10 0.2 0.2 0.2

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 1 of 4 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Lepechinia fragrans was found in 1 of 4 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus madritensis Samples Used in Description: (n = 4) rap0577, rap0625, rap0791, rap2355m Comments: This provisional association is likely to occur in other parts of the south coast ranges north to Monterey County.

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Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Bay/Hairy Leaf Ceanothus (Provisional) Woodland/Forest Association None I. Forest I.A. Evergreen forest I.A.6. Winter-rain broad-leaved evergreen sclerophyllous forest I.A.6.N. Natural/Seminatural winter-rain broadleaved evergreen sclerophyllous forest I.A.6.N.b. Lowland or submontane winter-rain evergreen sclerophyllous forest Umbellularia californica Woodland/Forest Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: None References: None

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Umbellularia californica-Alnus rhombifolia Woodland/Forest (Provisional) Association California Bay Woodland/Forest (Provisional) Association Umbellularia californica Woodland/Forest Alliance California Bay Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1013

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on relatively gentle slopes with variable aspect at low elevations between 49 and 347 m. It is dominated by Umbellularia californica, Alnus rhombifolia, and Platanus racemosa in the tree layer and Baccharis salicifolia in the understory shrub layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 49–347 m, mean 198 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–2 degrees, mean 2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): concave; bottom to lower slopes Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: range 30–30%, mean 30% Large Rock Cover: range 15–15%, mean 15% Bare Ground: range 5–5%, mean 5% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: muck Vegetation Description: Stands of Umbellularia californica-Alnus rhombifolia Woodland/Forest form an intermittent tree layer (42–43%, mean 42.5%) with conifers at 0–15 m tall and hardwoods at 10–15 m tall, a sparse shrub layer (9%, mean 9%) at 0.5–5 m tall, and a sparse herbaceous layer (9%, mean 9%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 63–64%, mean cover is 63.5%. In this association, the overstory tree layer is dominated by Umbellularia californica, Alnus rhombifolia, and Platanus racemosa. Salix lasiolepis, Quercus agrifolia, and Juglans californica are frequently in the understory tree layer. The shrub layer is sparse and is dominated by Baccharis salicifolia. The herbaceous layer is diverse and is dominated by Arundo donax, Piptatherum miliaceum, Algae, Cyperus sp., Foeniculum vulgare, Bromus diandrus, Equisetum sp., and Typha sp.

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Umbellularia californica-Alnus rhombifolia Association Layer Code Tree Overstory UMCA-T ALRH2-T PLRA PINUS EUCAL-T Tree Understory SALA6-T QUAG-M JUCA-M ALRH2-M Shrub BASA4 MALA6 NIGL BAPI HEAR5 CESP RICO3 ACRE9 RHOV SPJU2 Herb ARDO4 PIMI3 ALGAE CYPER FOVU BRDI3 EQUIS TYPHA CERU2 AGAVE BRNI MASA2 MEAL2 PESE3 RUCR

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Umbellularia californica Alnus rhombifolia Platanus racemosa Pinus Eucalyptus

100 18.5 15 100 11 10 100 5.5 3 50 0.5 1 50 0.1 0.2

22 X X 12 X X 8 X 1 0.2 X

Salix lasiolepis Quercus agrifolia Juglans californica Alnus rhombifolia

100 100 100 50

3 2.5 1 1

3 2 1 2

Baccharis salicifolia Malosma laurina Nicotiana glauca Baccharis pilularis Heteromeles arbutifolia Ceanothus spinosus Ricinus communis Acacia redolens Rhus ovata Spartium junceum

100 100 100 50 50 50 50 50 50 50

3 2.5 0.6 1 1 0.5 0.5 0.1 0.1 0.1

2 2 0.2 2 2 1 1 0.2 0.2 0.2

4 X X 3 X 1 X X 2 2 1 1 X 0.2 X 0.2 0.2 X

Arundo donax Piptatherum miliaceum Algae Cyperus Foeniculum vulgare Bromus diandrus Equisetum Typha Centranthus ruber Agave Brassica nigra Malacothrix saxatilis Melilotus albus Pennisetum setaceum Rumex crispus

100 100 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50

3 0.6 1.5 1.5 1.5 1 1 1 0.5 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1

2 0.2 3 3 3 2 2 2 1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

4 1 3 3 3 2 2 2 1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

3 3 1 2

X X X X X

X X X X

X X

X X X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 2 of 2 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004).

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Nonnative Species: Arundo donax, Nicotiana glauca, Piptatherum miliaceum, Foeniculum vulgare, Bromus diandrus, Centranthus ruber, Ricinus communis, Acacia redolens, Brassica nigra, Melilotus albus, Pennisetum setaceum, Rumex crispus, Spartium junceum Samples Used in Description: (n = 2) rap0386, rap0388 Comments: This is a locally rare provisional association from one main site location, so it will require further sampling to be validated as an association. It is clearly related to the Alnus rhombifolia-Platanus racemosa Association in this report. The presence of significant cover of Umbellularia californica suggests a narrow, shaded, and rocky riparian setting. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Bay-White Alder Woodland/Forest Association None I. Forest I.A. Evergreen forest I.A.6. Winter-rain broad-leaved evergreen sclerophyllous forest I.A.6.N. Natural/Seminatural winter-rain broadleaved evergreen sclerophyllous forest I.A.6.N.b. Lowland or submontane winter-rain evergreen sclerophyllous forest Umbellularia californica Woodland/Forest Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G2S2?

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description.

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Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This vegetation type may also occur in the south and central coast ranges north of the study area (J. Evens, personal observation). While Alnus rhombifolia-Platanus racemosa and Umbellularia californica-Platanus racemosa associations are described in this study area, this association is retained because of the strong presence of Umbellularia californica with Alnus rhombifolia. References: None

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Umbellularia californica-Juglans californica/Ceanothus spinosus Woodland/Forest Association California Bay-California Walnut/Greenbark Ceanothus Woodland/Forest Association Umbellularia californica Woodland/Forest Alliance California Bay Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1011

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on moderately steep to steep north-facing slopes at low elevations between 0 and 734 m. It is dominated by Umbellularia californica and Juglans californica in the tree layer, Ceanothus spinosus in the understory shrub layer, and a variety of grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains and Immediate Coast region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–734 m, mean 384 m Aspect: variable but often northeast or northwest Slope: range 12–40 degrees, mean 26.4 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable but often concave; bottom to top slopes Litter Cover: range 85–85%, mean 85% Small Rock Cover: range 1–10%, mean 4.5% Large Rock Cover: range 0–20%, mean 7.3% Bare Ground: range 1–25%, mean 6.5% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: medium loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Umbellularia californica-Juglans californica/Ceanothus spinosus Woodland/Forest form a sparse to intermittent tree layer (8–62%, mean 27.6%) with conifers at 0–10 m tall and hardwoods at 5–15 m tall, a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (1–56%, mean 32.1%) at 0–10 m tall, and a sparse herbaceous layer (0–10%, mean 1.5%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 35–70%, mean cover is 60.9%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Umbellularia californica and Juglans californica, and Quercus agrifolia is occasionally included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent and is dominated by Ceanothus spinosus, and Heteromeles arbutifolia is often found in lower cover. Occasionally, Ceanothus megacarpus, Prunus ilicifolia, and Toxicodendron diversilobum are also included. The herbaceous layer is diverse and occasionally includes Leymus condensatus, Dryopteris arguta, and Piptatherum miliaceum in low cover.

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Umbellularia californica-Juglans californica/Ceanothus spinosus Association Layer Code Tree Overstory UMCA-T JUCA-T QUAG-T Shrub CESP HEAR5 CEME PRIL TODI MALA6 RHOV Herb LECO12

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Umbellularia californica Juglans californica Quercus agrifolia

95 76 48

17.7 5 7.2 0.2 1.6 0.2

50 X X 30 X 8

Ceanothus spinosus Heteromeles arbutifolia Ceanothus megacarpus Prunus ilicifolia Toxicodendron diversilobum Malosma laurina Rhus ovata

100 23.9 1 76 1.5 0.2 43 0.8 0.2 43 0.6 0.2 33 0.5 0.2 29 2.1 0.2 24 0.4 0.2

40 X X 8 X 10 4 5 31 7

Leymus condensatus

29

3

0.4

0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 16 of 21 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Lepechinia fragrans was found in 1 of 21 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Piptatherum miliaceum, Senecio mikanioides, Bromus diandrus, Brassica nigra, Catalpa, Cynodon dactylon, Medicago polymorpha, Nicotiana glauca, Sequoia sempervirens Samples Used in Description: (n = 21) AA0477cc, AA0557, AA0854, AA0904, AA0952, AA1040, AA1193, AA1211, rap0126, rap0143, rap0144, rap0146, rap0409, rap0433m, rap0439, rap0449, rap0472m, rap0531, rap0550, rap2160, rap2781 Comments: This association with Umbellularia as a dominant to codominant with Juglans is a common semiriparian association occurring on usually steep northerly facing ravines and upper drainages in the Santa Monica Mountains. This association is similar to the Juglans californica/Ceanothus spinosus Association, which is especially found on north-facing slopes that are not particularly riparian. The overstory cover of Juglans californica was variable in the stands because some sampling was done during periods when the leaves of this deciduous species were largely absent. Phases: None

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COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Bay-California Walnut/Greenbark Ceanothus Woodland/Forest Association None I. Forest I.A. Evergreen forest I.A.6. Winter-rain broad-leaved evergreen sclerophyllous forest I.A.6.N. Natural/Seminatural winter-rain broadleaved evergreen sclerophyllous forest I.A.6.N.b. Lowland or submontane winter-rain evergreen sclerophyllous forest Umbellularia californica Woodland/Forest Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: Although locally common, this association is largely endemic to the Santa Monica Mountains and surrounding areas. References: None

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Umbellularia californica-Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest Association California Bay-California Sycamore Woodland/Forest Association Umbellularia californica Woodland/Forest Alliance California Bay Woodland/Forest Alliance Mapping Code: 1014

Local Description Summary: This woodland/forest association occurs on gentle to steep slopes with variable aspects, at low elevations between 183 and 596 m. It is dominated by Umbellularia californica and Platanus racemosa in the tree layer. Ceanothus spinosus is abundant in the understory shrub layer, and a variety of grasses and forbs is in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 183–596 m, mean 418.6 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–35 degrees, mean 15.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): often concave, rarely undulating; bottom to mid slopes Litter Cover: 60% (one survey) Small Rock Cover: no data Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: no data Parent Material: more often sedimentary, occasionally metamorphic or depositional Soil Texture: medium loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Umbellularia californica-Platanus racemosa Woodland/Forest form a sparse to continuous tree layer (0–75%, mean 46.6%) with hardwoods at 5–15 m tall, an a sparse to intermittent shrub layer (0–40%, mean 9.5%) at 0–5 m tall, and a sparse herbaceous layer (0–10%, mean 1.6%) at 0–2 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 36–75%, mean cover is 56.7%. In this association, the tree layer is dominated by Umbellularia californica and Platanus racemosa. Juglans californica and Quercus agrifolia are frequently included in this layer. Ceanothus spinosus is abundant in the sparse to intermittent shrub layer. Heteromeles arbutifolia is frequently in this layer. Occasionally, Toxicodendron diversilobum and Malosma laurina are also included. The herbaceous layer is simple and includes Leymus condensatus and Dryopteris arguta.

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Umbellularia californica-Platanus racemosa Association Layer Code Tree Overstory UMCA-T PLRA JUCA-T QUAG-T Shrub CESP HEAR5 TODI MALA6 PRIL Herb LECO12 DRAR3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Umbellularia californica Platanus racemosa Juglans californica Quercus agrifolia

100 36.8 9 100 9.2 2 70 2.1 0.2 50 1.8 2

70 X X 16 X 8 5

Ceanothus spinosus Heteromeles arbutifolia Toxicodendron diversilobum Malosma laurina Prunus ilicifolia

60 60 30 30 20

1.7 1.5 0.9 0.1 0.01

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

12 X 11 8 0.2 0.2

Leymus condensatus Dryopteris arguta

30 30

0.3 0.1

0.2 0.2

2 0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 7 of 10 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Lilium humboldtii was found in 1 of 10 surveys of this plant community, which is most likely the rare subspecies Lilium humboldtii subsp. ocellatum. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G4T3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Stellaria media, Galium aparine, Nicotiana glauca Samples Used in Description: (n = 10) AA1221, rap0392, rap1415, rap2386, rap2659, rap2683, rap2684, rap2692, rap2718, rap2783 Comments: These stands vary from low-lying valleys to steep narrow ravines on upper slopes. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP

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California Bay-California Sycamore Woodland/Forest Association None I. Forest I.A. Evergreen forest I.A.6. Winter-rain broad-leaved evergreen sclerophyllous forest I.A.6.N. Natural/Seminatural winter-rain broadleaved evergreen sclerophyllous forest

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FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

I.A.6.N.b. Lowland or submontane winter-rain evergreen sclerophyllous forest Umbellularia californica Woodland/Forest Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This association is likely to occur elsewhere in the south and central coast ranges north through Monterey County (T. Keeler-Wolf, personal observation). References: None

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Shrub Overstory Vegetation Descriptions

Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Association Chamise Shrubland Association Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance Chamise Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2011 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on flat to steep slopes of variable aspect at low to middle elevations between 38–862 m. It is dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum in the shrub layer with a diverse but low cover herbaceous layer. There are virtually no emergent trees, but occasionally, Quercus agrifolia, Umbellularia californica, and Platanus racemosa are present. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper and Lower Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Western Fog Zone, Simi Hills Inland, Dry Inland, and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 38–862 m, mean 420.2 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 0–45 degrees, mean 23.3 degrees Topography (micro;macro): variable; lower slope to ridge Litter Cover: range 0–60%, mean 25.2% Small Rock Cover: range 1–68%, mean 27.3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–55%, mean 4.8% Bare Ground: range 0–50%, mean 25.6% Parent Material: sedimentary or igneous Soil Texture: coarse loamy sand to fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (12–65%, mean 37.4%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–15%, mean 2.4%) at 0–5 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–7% cover, mean 0.5%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 15–65%, mean cover is 40.1%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by an abundance of Adenostoma fasciculatum. Salvia mellifera and Malosma laurina are usually included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may rarely include Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Bromus madritensis, Nassella lepida, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus diandrus, or Hemizonia fasciculata.

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Adenostoma fasciculatum Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ADFA SAME3 MALA6 YUWH ERFA2 HEAR5 CEME LOSC2 ARCA11 RHOV HASQ2 MIAU

Adenostoma fasciculatum Salvia mellifera Malosma laurina Yucca whipplei Eriogonum fasciculatum Heteromeles arbutifolia Ceanothus megacarpus Lotus scoparius Artemisia californica Rhus ovata Hazardia squarrosa Mimulus aurantiacus

100 28.4 7.5 60.0 X X 70 2.0 0.2 9.0 64 1.0 0.2 6.0 49 0.5 0.2 8.0 32 0.3 0.2 3.0 31 0.6 0.2 11.0 31 0.4 0.2 6.0 30 0.2 0.2 3.0 23 0.4 0.2 9.0 23 0.2 0.2 3.0 22 0.2 0.2 5.0 21 0.3 0.2 4.0

BRMAI3

Bromus madritensis

27

Herb 0.3

0.2

3.0

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus plummerae was found in 1 of 77 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Hemizonia minthornii was found in 1of 77 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is ?, and state rank is ? (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is Rare (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus madritensis, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus diandrus, Bromus hordeaceus, Brassica nigra, Hirschfeldia incana, Anagallis arvensis, Avena fatua, Erodium cicutarium, Avena, Avena barbata, Carduus pycnocephalus, Lactuca serriola, Medicago polymorpha, Piptatherum miliaceum, Robinia, Schinus molle, Silene gallica Samples Used in Description: (n = 77) AA0050cc, AA0191cc, AA0211cc, AA0237cc, AA0259cc, AA0261cc, AA0295cc, AA0485cc, AA0525, AA0561, AA0606, AA0609, AA0724, AA0771, AA0813, AA0824, AA0846, AA0928, AA0943, AA0963, AA1045, AA1050, AA1082, AA1088, AA1156, rap0001, rap0186, rap0193, rap0211, rap0218, rap0219, rap0220, rap0249, rap0258, rap0277, rap0308, rap0310, rap0458, rap0480, rap0481, rap0567, rap0593, rap1207, rap1265, rap1288, rap1305, rap1307, rap1558, rap1586, rap1588, rap1608, rap1613, rap1614, rap1615, rap1658, rap1685, rap1718m, rap1787, rap1788, rap1895, rap1920, rap2089, rap2120, rap2145, rap2284, rap2291, rap2297, rap2322, rap2334, rap2547, rap2548, rap2646, rap2660, rap2691, rap2844, rap2918, rap2927 Comments: Throughout much of California, there are stands strongly dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum with little else to characterize them. This association is the local SAMO expression of this strongly dominated A. fasciculatum vegetation. Clearly, there are some associated species not to be expected in other parts of the state, but none of them occur frequently enough to be

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considered characteristic. Thus, this is called the A. fasciculatum Shrubland Association although it may be ecologically and biotically somewhat different than other similar associations defined elsewhere in the state. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUB GROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Chamise Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S5

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. However, several other chamise associations have been defined from California including San Diego County (Evens and San 2005), western Riverside County (Klein, Evens, Keeler-Wolf and Hickson 2005), and mafic soils type from the peninsular ranges (Gordon & White 1994). Several of these may be so similar to be considered synonymous. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: The chamise alliance is the most widespread chaparral vegetation in California and ranges from Shasta County in the north to northwestern Baja California, Mexico. References: Evens and San 2005, Gordon & White 1994, Klein and Evens 2005

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Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Association Chamise-Big Pod Ceanothus Shrubland Association Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance Chamise Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2019 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep slopes of variable aspect at low to mid elevations between 130–810 m. It is dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum in the shrub layer with lower cover of Ceanothus megacarpus. It has no significant herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer is generally nonexistent but may include occasional emergent Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Western Fog Zone, Immediate Coast, Dry Inland, and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 130–810 m, mean 426.4 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–35 degrees, mean 23 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating or convex; mid to upper slope Litter Cover: range 8–50%, mean 23% Small Rock Cover: range 0–55%, mean 25% Large Rock Cover: range 0–11%, mean 3.1% Bare Ground: range 0–58%, mean 30.5% Parent Material: sedimentary or igneous Soil Texture: coarse loamy sand to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (23–60%, mean 39.1%). Shrubs occur in two different strata, with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–10%, mean 1.2%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–2% cover, mean 0.1%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 30—60%, mean cover is 40.3%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by abundant Adenostoma fasciculatum with Ceanothus megacarpus, Malosma laurina, and Salvia mellifera also present. Yucca whipplei is often present, and Lotus scoparius and Heteromeles arbutifolia are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and occasionally includes Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Centaurea melitensis, Nassella lepida, Bromus madritensis, and Pellaea mucronata.

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Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus megacarpus Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ADFA CEME MALA6 SAME3 YUWH LOSC2 HEAR5 ERFA2 CEBE3 HASQ2

Adenostoma fasciculatum Ceanothus megacarpus Malosma laurina Salvia mellifera Yucca whipplei Lotus scoparius Heteromeles arbutifolia Eriogonum fasciculatum Cercocarpus betuloides Hazardia squarrosa

100 21.9 8.0 38.0 X X 98 7.9 2.0 18.0 X 90 1.8 0.2 8.0 X 81 3.3 0.2 15.0 X 69 0.3 0.2 2.5 48 0.7 0.2 10.0 45 0.4 0.2 4.0 40 0.6 0.2 6.0 24 0.3 0.2 4.0 21 0.1 0.2 2.0

Other Noteworthy Species: Lepechinia fragrans was found in 3 of 42 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus hordeaceus, Avena, Bromus diandrus, Anagallis arvensis, Avena fatua, Carduus pycnocephalus, Schinus molle Samples Used in Description: (n = 42) AA0024cc, AA0289cc, AA0335, AA0521, AA0668, AA0827, AA0887, AA1039, AA1139, AA1202, rap0005m, rap0020, rap0107, rap0110, rap0131m, rap0141, rap0180, rap0208, rap0286, rap0313, rap0375, rap0414, rap0423m, rap0525, rap0530, rap0544, rap0595, rap0597, rap0799, rap1290, rap1487, rap1702m, rap1735, rap1781, rap2121, rap2243, rap2360, rap2401, rap2474, rap2485, rap2715, rap2788 Comments: This is an abundant association in the study area and is an interesting one from the standpoint of monitoring. In general, Ceanothus megacarpus appears to have become more abundant in the Santa Monica Mountains over the past 60–70 years, while Adenostoma fasciculatum has declined (R. Taylor 2004 personal communication). It is in this association of the Adenostoma fasciculatum Alliance where one might expect to observe shifts in relative cover and abundance of these two shrubs. Monitoring of several of the 42 samples in these stands through fire events may help clarify the long-term trends of these two common shrub species. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION

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Chamise-Big Pod Ceanothus Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland 224

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: The inverse of this association, the Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma fasciculatum/Salvia mellifera Association, has been described by Borchert et al. (1993). It remains to be seen whether these two associations should be combined. References: Borchert et al. 1993

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland Association Chamise-California Buckwheat Shrubland Association Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance Chamise Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2017 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 150–718 m. It is dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum with lower cover of Eriogonum fasciculatum in the shrub layer and a low cover of mostly nonnative grasses and forbs in the herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer is generally nonexistent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 150–718 m, mean 345.5 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 4–35 degrees, mean 21.4 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 10–25%, mean 18.3% Small Rock Cover: range 10–45%, mean 20.7% Large Rock Cover: range 0–50%, mean 8.1% Bare Ground: range 10–54%, mean 31.1% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: medium loam to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (8–49%, mean 31.1%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–1 m tall and tall shrubs at 0.5–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–30%, mean 6.7%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–1% cover, mean 0.1%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 21–51%, mean cover is 36.9%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Adenostoma fasciculatum, Eriogonum fasciculatum, and Lotus scoparius. Salvia mellifera, Malosma laurina, and Yucca whipplei are usually included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and infrequently includes Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and often includes Centaurea melitensis and Bromus diandrus. Other herbs sometimes include Bromus hordeaceus, Brassica nigra, Bromus madritensis, and Chlorogalum pomeridianum.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Eriogonum fasciculatum Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ADFA ERFA2 LOSC2 SAME3 MALA6 YUWH CECR RHOV DERI CESP QUBE5 CEBE3 HEAR5 MIAU ARCA11 HASQ2 CEME CECU

Adenostoma fasciculatum Eriogonum fasciculatum Lotus scoparius Salvia mellifera Malosma laurina Yucca whipplei Ceanothus crassifolius Rhus ovata Dendromecon rigida Ceanothus spinosus Quercus berberidifolia Cercocarpus betuloides Heteromeles arbutifolia Mimulus aurantiacus Artemisia californica Hazardia squarrosa Ceanothus megacarpus Ceanothus cuneatus

100 11.9 2.0 22.0 94 4.7 1.0 18.0 82 2.9 0.2 13.0 65 2.7 1.0 8.0 59 0.8 0.2 5.0 53 0.3 0.2 2.5 41 0.7 0.2 3.0 41 0.4 0.2 3.0 35 1.0 0.2 6.0 35 0.5 0.2 4.0 29 0.8 0.2 7.0 29 0.6 0.2 6.0 29 0.4 0.2 3.0 29 0.3 0.2 4.0 29 0.3 0.2 2.5 29 0.2 0.2 2.0 24 0.6 2.0 3.0 24 0.5 0.2 5.0

CEME2 BRDI3 BRHO2 BRNI AVENA BRMA3

Centaurea melitensis Bromus diandrus Bromus hordeaceus Brassica nigra Avena Bromus madritensis

65 41 35 29 24 24

X X X

Herb 1.1 1.0 1.8 0.2 0.6 0.3

0.2 7.5 0.2 9.0 0.2 20.0 0.2 1.0 0.2 7.5 0.2 2.0

X X X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Bromus diandrus, Bromus hordeaceus, Brassica nigra, Avena, Bromus madritensis, Avena fatua, Avena barbata, Erodium, Lamarckia aurea Samples Used in Description: (n = 17) AA0299cc, rap0226m, rap0229, rap0269, rap0368, rap0372, rap0398, rap0455, rap0488, rap0489, rap0490, rap2146, rap2209, rap2353, rap2378, rap2756, rap2768 Comments: The presence of living or dead Lotus scoparius in most of the stands of this association suggests it is a seral association of the Adenostoma fasciculatum Alliance. In general, most of these stands appear to have been disturbed by fire within the past 10 years. Over time, these stands may be colonized by C. crassifolius, C. megacarpus, or C. cuneatus based on location, and the canopy may close, largely excluding E. fasciculatum. The two phases identified suggest a more disturbed seral chaparral with annual grasses (perhaps more frequent fires or poor germination of obligate seeding chaparral species) and a phase with better germination of seral fire following shrubs such as Dendromecon and Lotus scoparius.

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Phases: Adenostoma fasciculatum-Eriogonum fasciculatum/Annual Grass-Herb (Chamise-California Buckwheat/Annual Grass-Herb) Phase [2017] Adenostoma fasciculatum-Lotus scoparius-Dendromecon rigida (Chamise-Deerweed-Bush Poppy) Phase [7012] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Chamise-California Buckwheat Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is known from the Santa Monica Mountains region as well as from western Riverside County (Klein and Evens 2005). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: Stands of this association sampled in western Riverside County also have Salvia mellifera, Arctostaphylos glauca, Encelia farinosa, and Rhus ovata in the shrub layer. A similar association, the Adenostoma fasciculatum-Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia apiana Association, is also known from western Riverside County. References: Klein and Evens 2005

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association Chamise-Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance Chamise Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2013 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on moderate to steep slopes of variable aspect at low to mid elevations between 111–991 m. It is dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum and subdominated by Malosma laurina in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is sparse and composed primarily of introduced annual species. The emergent tree layer includes Quercus agrifolia in 20% of the samples. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Hills Inland, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 111–991 m, mean 445.1 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 6–35 degrees, mean 25.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating; mid to upper slope Litter Cover: range 15–25%, mean 17.5% Small Rock Cover: range 0–75%, mean 18.2% Large Rock Cover: range 0–90%, mean 14.7% Bare Ground: range 0–60%, mean 29.3% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: coarse loamy sand to moderately fine sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Malosma laurina Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (8–55%, mean 35.4%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–9%, mean 1.2%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–3% cover, mean 0.2%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 8–55%, mean cover is 36.2%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Adenostoma fasciculatum, Malosma laurina, and Salvia mellifera. Yucca whipplei is often present, and Eriogonum fasciculatum is occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and sometimes includes Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Bromus madritensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus diandrus, and Brassica nigra.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Malosma laurina Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Tree Understory QUAG-M Shrub ADFA MALA6 SAME3 YUWH ERFA2 LOSC2 CEME MIAU RHOV CECR ERCR2 ARCA11 ARGL3 Herb BRMA3 AVENA

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

20

0.1

0.2

1.0

Quercus agrifolia

20

0.1

0.2

2.0

Adenostoma fasciculatum Malosma laurina Salvia mellifera Yucca whipplei Eriogonum fasciculatum Lotus scoparius Ceanothus megacarpus Mimulus aurantiacus Rhus ovata Ceanothus crassifolius Eriodictyon crassifolium Artemisia californica Arctostaphylos glandulosa

100 19.1 3.0 37.0 X X 100 8.8 2.0 22.0 X 80 1.9 0.2 5.0 X 72 0.3 0.2 3.0 48 0.8 0.2 6.0 36 0.3 0.2 2.0 32 0.7 0.2 6.0 32 0.3 0.2 3.0 28 0.6 0.2 8.0 20 0.8 0.2 6.0 20 0.2 0.2 2.0 20 0.2 0.2 3.0 20 0.1 0.2 1.0

Bromus madritensis Avena

24 20

0.01 0.2 0.1 0.2

0.2 1.0

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Leptodactylon californicum was found in 2 of 25 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G5T3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus madritensis, Avena, Hirschfeldia incana, Centaurea melitensis, Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Bromus hordeaceus, Pennisetum setaceum, Erodium, Silene gallica Samples Used in Description: (n = 25) AA0060cc, AA0691, AA0776, AA0825, AA0877, AA1083, rap0541, rap0600, rap0678, rap1082, rap1119, rap1236, rap1242, rap1572, rap1573, rap1612, rap1616, rap1695m, rap1913, rap2164, rap2239, rap2318m, rap2412, rap2734, rap2846 Comments: This is a relatively common association in the study area. The presence of Malosma laurina with chamise indicates relatively warm and dry conditions. Although Adenostoma fasciculatum is typically dominant, averaging about twice the cover of M. laurina, occasionally M. laurina may codominate. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM

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Chamise-Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is known from the Santa Monica Mountains and western Riverside County. It likely occurs elsewhere in coastal southern California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This association has also been recently described from western Riverside County, where Ceanothus leucodermis, Yucca whipplei, and Eriogonum fasciculatum are also common cooccurring species in the shrub layer. References: Klein and Evens 2005

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Malosma laurina-Eriodictyon crassifolium/ Annual Grass-Herb Shrubland Association Chamise-Laurel Sumac-Yerba Santa Shrubland Association Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance Chamise Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 7018 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 162–657 m. It is dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum and subdominated by Malosma laurina in the shrub layer and scattered native and nonnative species in the herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer includes Quercus agrifolia in about one-third of the samples. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 162–657 m, mean 526 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–42 degrees, mean 20.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat, undulating, convex, or concave; lower slope to ridge Litter Cover: range 7–55%, mean 26.2% Small Rock Cover: range 2–35%, mean 15% Large Rock Cover: range 0–60%, mean 17.8% Bare Ground: range 8–70%, mean 24.9% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: medium loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Malosma laurina-Eriodyction crassifolium/Annual GrassHerb Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (4–42%, mean 21.5%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (2–32%, mean 13.6%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–15% cover, mean 1.6%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 25–52%, mean cover is 36.8%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Adenostoma fasciculatum, Eriodictyon crassifolium, Malosma laurina, and Salvia mellifera. Eriogonum fasciculatum, Ceanothus crassifolius, and Lotus scoparius are usually included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and sometimes includes Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and often includes Bromus madritensis and Centaurea melitensis. Other herbs sometimes include Bromus diandrus, Filago californica, Hirschfeldia incana, and Avena barbata.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Malosma laurina-Eriodictyon crassifolium/Annual Grass-Herb Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub ADFA MALA6 ERCR2 SAME3 ERFA2 CECR LOSC2 MIAU RIMA RHOV HASQ2 YUWH CEBE3 PRIL HEMI6 Herb CEME2 BRMA3 HIIN3 BRDI3 FICA2 BRNI BRHO2 HEFA AVENA LEFI11 AVBA CUCA PHACE

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

31

1.6

2.5 15.0

Adenostoma fasciculatum Malosma laurina Eriodictyon crassifolium Salvia mellifera Eriogonum fasciculatum Ceanothus crassifolius Lotus scoparius Mimulus aurantiacus Ribes malvaceum Rhus ovata Hazardia squarrosa Yucca whipplei Cercocarpus betuloides Prunus ilicifolia Hemizonia minthornii

100 88 88 81 69 62 56 44 31 25 25 25 25 25 25

6.5 4.1 3.9 1.7 0.9 1.3 1.9 0.8 0.5 0.6 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.4 0.3

2.0 2.0 2.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 1.0 0.2 1.0 1.0 0.2

15.0 15.0 12.0 4.0 2.5 7.5 15.0 4.0 2.5 5.0 3.0 2.5 3.0 2.5 2.5

Centaurea melitensis Bromus madritensis Hirschfeldia incana Bromus diandrus Filago californica Brassica nigra Bromus hordeaceus Hemizonia fasciculata Avena Lessingia filaginifolia Avena barbata Cuscuta californica Phacelia

62 62 56 31 31 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25

1.1 0.8 1.5 1.1 0.3 0.8 0.8 0.7 0.6 0.4 0.2 0.2 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 2.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

3.0 3.0 6.0 8.0 2.0 7.5 7.5 3.0 7.5 2.5 3.0 3.0 1.0

X X X X

X X X X X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Hemizonia minthornii was found in 4 of 16 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G2 , and state rank is S2.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is Rare (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus diandrus, Brassica nigra, Bromus hordeaceus, Avena, Avena barbata, Erodium cicutarium, Avena fatua, Anagallis arvensis, Vicia villosa, Carduus pycnocephalus, Lamarckia aurea, Nicotiana glauca, Silene gallica

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Samples Used in Description: (n = 16) AA0195cc, AA0196cc, AA0197cc, AA0198cc, AA0264cc, rap1548, rap1603, rap1607, rap1609, rap1610, rap1994, rap2208, rap2372, rap2409, rap2410, rap2411 Comments: The presence of Eriodictyon crassifolium suggests a seral setting in these stands. This is strengthened by the presence of other common short-lived perennial species such as Lotus scoparius, Hazardia squarrosa, and numerous annual nonnative species. However, it may persist for longer periods in rocky areas with thin soils. This vegetation type is clearly related to the Adenostoma fasciculatum-Malosma laurina Association and may ultimately be considered a broad seral phase of it. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Chamise-Laurel Sumac-Yerba Santa Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None C1188-1/c

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Mimulus aurantiacus Shrubland Association Chamise-Bush Monkey Flower Shrubland Association Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance Chamise Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 7013 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on steep to very steep northeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 277–488 m. It is dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum with lesser cover of Mimulus aurantiacus in the shrub layer with little distinguishing the herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer includes Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Hills Inland, and Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 277–488 m, mean 351.1 m Aspect: northeast Slope: range 30–60 degrees, mean 37.1 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating, flat, convex, or concave; lower to ridge top Litter Cover: range 20–60%, mean 41.7% Small Rock Cover: range 6–35%, mean 21.5% Large Rock Cover: range 0–1%, mean 0.5% Bare Ground: range 20–42%, mean 30.5% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam or sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Mimulus aurantiacus Shrubland form an intermittent shrub layer (40–48%, mean 43.9%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0.5–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–4%, mean 1%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–10% cover, mean 1.7%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 40–52%, mean cover is 46.1%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Adenostoma fasciculatum and Mimulus aurantiacus. Heteromeles arbutifolia, Salvia mellifera, and Malosma laurina are usually included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and occasionally includes Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and occasionally includes Bromus madritensis. Other herbs may include Piptatherum miliaceum, Pentagramma triangularis, Nassella lepida, and Marah macrocarpus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Mimulus aurantiacus Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub ADFA MIAU HEAR5 MALA6 SAME3 RHOV KECO ARCA11 YUWH CEBE3 QUBE5 SALE3 CEME RHIL RIMA SAME5 TODI Herb BRMA3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

43

1.7

Adenostoma fasciculatum Mimulus aurantiacus Heteromeles arbutifolia Malosma laurina Salvia mellifera Rhus ovata Keckiella cordifolia Artemisia californica Yucca whipplei Cercocarpus betuloides Quercus berberidifolia Salvia leucophylla Ceanothus megacarpus Rhamnus ilicifolia Ribes malvaceum Sambucus mexicana Toxicodendron diversilobum

100 18.7 7.0 30.0 X X 100 9.9 5.0 16.0 X 57 5.7 1.0 14.0 57 2.2 0.2 6.0 57 0.5 0.2 2.0 43 1.3 1.0 6.0 43 1.2 0.2 7.0 43 0.6 0.2 4.0 29 0.7 2.0 3.0 29 0.3 0.2 2.0 29 0.3 0.2 2.0 29 0.3 0.2 2.0 29 0.3 1.0 1.0 29 0.2 0.2 1.0 29 0.1 0.2 0.2 29 0.1 0.2 0.2 29 0.1 0.2 0.2

Bromus madritensis

43

0.1

0.2 10.0

0.2

0.2

X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Bromus madritensis, Bromus hordeaceus, Centaurea melitensis, Piptatherum miliaceum Samples Used in Description: (n = 7) rap1912, rap1914, rap2024, rap2071, rap2376, rap2484, rap2827 Comments: The presence of Mimulus aurantiacus as a constant in this association suggests a more coastal or semisheltered setting for this association of the chamise alliance. The M. aurantiacus Association of the chamise alliance tends to occur in somewhat rocky, steep areas but typically not as xeric as many other chamise associations. All local aspects are northeast facing, and this association appears to be most common in areas within the summer fog zone. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP

C1188-1/c

Chamise-Bush Monkey Flower Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is known from the Santa Monica Mountains and from Marin County. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory; however, it likely occurs elsewhere in the coastal mountains of California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: In Marin County (Keeler-Wolf et al. 2003), this association is found on the upper one-third of rocky, 16–30 degree angle, south-facing slopes. Soil textures range from medium loam to moderately coarse sandy loam of sandstone origin. Most stands are above the average summer fog layer. Vegetation Description: In Marin County (Keeler-Wolf et al. 2003) stands of the Adenostoma fasciculatum-Mimulus aurantiacus Shrubland Association are dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum. Mimulus aurantiacus covers 1 to 20% of the stand. Also common in this association are the small nonnative grasses Aira caryophyllea and Gastridium ventricosum. Other shrubs and understory herbs vary but may include Melica californica, Hypericum concinnum, Nassella pulchra, Nassella lepida, Avena barbata, Zigadenus fremontii, Chlorogalum pomeridianum, Pleuropogon californicus, Bromus madritensis rubens, Cynosurus echinatus, and Baccharis pilularis. Umbellularia californica may also be present. Comments: The association named Adenostoma fasciculatum-Mimulus aurantiacus was first described from the outer coast ranges of northern California in Marin County (Keeler-Wolf et al. 2003). Although it differs to some degree in the species composition from the Santa Monica Mountains version, it is essentially similar in that it occurs near or in the coastal fog zone within only one mile or two of the ocean. It stands to reason that the more northerly expression of this association is more restricted to south-facing slopes and in otherwise relatively more xeric settings than the southern California expression where there is less rainfall and warmer temperatures. References: Keeler-Wolf et al. 2003

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237

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia leucophylla Shrubland Association Chamise-Purple Sage (Provisional) Shrubland Association Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance Chamise Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2018 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep slopes at low elevations between 567 and 631 m. It is codominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum and Salvia leucophylla in the shrub layer, and a variety of other coastal sage and chaparral shrubs are often present at low cover. The herbaceous layer is variable and may be dominated by grasses or herbs such as Avena sp., Centaurea melitensis, and/or Hemizonia fasciculata. The tree layer is not recorded. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Simi Hills Inland region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 567–631 m, mean 614 m Aspect: northeast and southwest Slope: range 15–35 degrees, mean 25.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): usually flat, sometimes convex; mid to upper slopes to ridgetop Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: no data Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: no data Parent Material: no data Soil Texture: no data Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia leucophylla Shrubland form intermittent shrub layer (35–48%, mean 43%). Shrubs commonly occur in two different strata, with low shrubs at 0.5–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–15%, mean 5.5%) at 0.01–1 m tall. The tree layer is not recorded. Total vegetation cover is 48.–50%, mean cover is 48.5%. In this association, shrub layer is intermittent and codominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum and Salvia leucophylla. A variety of other coastal sage and chaparral shrubs is often present at low cover including Heteromeles arbutifolia, Salvia mellifera, Ceanothus crassifolius, and Malacothamnus fasciculatus. The herbaceous layer is variable and may be dominated by Centaurea melitensis, Avena sp., and/or Hemizonia fasciculata. Other herbs at low cover often include Marah macrocarpus and Leymus condensatus. The tree layer is absent.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia leucophylla Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ADFA SALE3 HEAR5 SAME3 CECR MAFA ARCA11 ERFA2 YUWH MALA6 RHOV BAPI MIAU

Adenostoma fasciculatum Salvia leucophylla Heteromeles arbutifolia Salvia mellifera Ceanothus crassifolius Malacothamnus fasciculatus Artemisia californica Eriogonum fasciculatum Yucca whipplei Malosma laurina Rhus ovata Baccharis pilularis Mimulus aurantiacus

100 17.9 7.5 22.0 X X 100 15.0 10.0 20.0 X X 75 2.1 2.0 4.0 X 75 1.9 1.0 4.0 X 75 1.4 0.2 3.0 X 75 0.9 0.2 2.5 X 50 0.7 0.2 2.5 25 0.6 2.5 2.5 25 0.6 2.5 2.5 25 0.3 1.0 1.0 25 0.3 1.0 1.0 25 0.1 0.2 0.2 25 0.1 0.2 0.2

MAMA8 CEME2 LECO12 AVENA HEFA ANMU3 CUCA HIIN3

Marah macrocarpus Centaurea melitensis Leymus condensatus Avena Hemizonia fasciculata Antirrhinum multiflorum Cuscuta californica Hirschfeldia incana

75 50 50 25 25 25 25 25

Herb 0.6 2.6 0.6 1.9 1.9 0.1 0.1 0.1

0.2 3.0 0.2 7.5 7.5 0.2 0.2 0.2

2.0 X 7.5 X X 2.0 7.5 X 7.5 0.2 0.2 0.2 X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Avena, Hirschfeldia incana Samples Used in Description: (n = 4) AA0297cc, rap1676, rap1680, rap2038 Comments: This association has been defined only locally in the study area, where there is a codominance of chamise and purple sage. Currently, the association is provisional since the sample size is low. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP

C1188-1/c

Chamise-Purple Sage (Provisional) Shrubland Association Coastal Sage-Chaparral Scrub (Holland 1986) Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural

239

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Be Simi Valley-Santa Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: None References: Holland 1986

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240

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Adenostoma sparsifolium-Ceanothus crassifolius Shrubland Association Chamise-Redshank-Hoary Leaf Ceanothus Shrubland Association Adenostoma fasciculatum-Adenostoma sparsifolium Shrubland Alliance Chamise-Redshank Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2042 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep slopes of variable aspect at low to mid elevations between 320–888 m. It is dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum, Adenostoma sparsifolium, and Ceanothus crassifolius in the shrub layer with little cover in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 320–888 m, mean 705.8 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–35 degrees, mean 20.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating, convex, or flat; lower slope to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 60–80%, mean 70% Small Rock Cover: range 5–40%, mean 16% Large Rock Cover: range 0–5%, mean 1.8% Bare Ground: range 10–38%, mean 21.7% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: medium loam to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Adenostoma sparsifolium-Ceanothus crassifolius Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (21–58%, mean 42.9%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–31%, mean 5.5%) at 0–0.5 m tall. Trees are not present. Total vegetation cover is 42–58%, mean cover is 48%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Adenostoma sparsifolium, Ceanothus crassifolius, and Adenostoma fasciculatum. Yucca whipplei and Rhus ovata are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is absent. The herbaceous layer is diverse and may include Bromus hordeaceus, Centaurea melitensis, and Avena sp.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Adenostoma sparsifolium-Ceanothus crassifolius Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ADSP CECR ADFA YUWH RHOV CEOL ERFA2 LEFR SAME3

Adenostoma sparsifolium Ceanothus crassifolius Adenostoma fasciculatum Yucca whipplei Rhus ovata Ceanothus oliganthus Eriogonum fasciculatum Lepechinia fragrans Salvia mellifera

100 13.6 2.0 25.0 X X 100 12.8 4.0 25.0 X 92 9.8 2.0 24.0 X 50 0.4 0.2 2.5 42 1.0 0.2 4.0 33 0.8 0.2 5.0 33 0.3 0.2 2.0 33 0.2 0.2 1.0 25 0.3 0.2 2.5

BRHO2

Bromus hordeaceus

33

Herb 1.1

1.0 10.0

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Delphinium parryi was found in 1of 12 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, CNPS R-E-D Code is 3-2-3. Global rank is G4T2, and state rank is S2.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Lepechinia fragrans was found in 4of 12 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus hordeaceus, Avena, Centaurea melitensis, Avena barbata, Bromus madritensis Samples Used in Description: (n = 12) AA0138cc, AA0458cc, rap0785m, rap0795, rap1535m, rap1764, rap1772, rap1782m, rap1784, rap1789, rap2148, rap2171 Comments: This association is characterized by a codominance of the three nominate species. Although Ceanothus crassifolius is a widespread chaparral species forming its own alliance in many parts of southern coastal California, it is not known to occur with redshank in combination with chamise anywhere outside of the Santa Monica Mountains. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP

C1188-1/c

Chamise-Redshank-Hoary Leaf Ceanothus Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural

242

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Adenostoma fasciculatum-Adenostoma sparsifolium Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. The alliance is found in southern coastal California and adjacent Baja California, Mexico (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf, 1995, Gordon and White (1995). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Gordon and White 1994, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

C1188-1/c

243

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glandulosa Shrubland Association Chamise-Eastwood Manzanita Shrubland Association Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glandulosa Shrubland Alliance Chamise-Eastwood Manzanita Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2021 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on moderately steep to steep northeast- and northwest-facing slopes at low to mid elevations between 207–781 m. It is dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum and Arctostaphylos glandulosa in the shrub layer and in the herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer includes Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Immediate Coast, and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 207–781 m, mean 536.9 m Aspect: northeast and northwest Slope: range 7–38 degrees, mean 21.9 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating or convex; lower slope to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 15–35%, mean 25% Small Rock Cover: range 1–45%, mean 16.3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–25%, mean 9.1% Bare Ground: range 5–40%, mean 24.8% Parent Material: sedimentary or quaternary Soil Texture: coarse to very fine loamy sand Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glandulosa Shrubland form an open to continuous shrub layer (30–70%, mean 49.5%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–2%, mean 0.1%) at 0–0.5 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–5% cover, mean 0.7%) with hardwoods at 0–15 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 31–70%, mean cover is 50.3%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by abundant cover of Adenostoma fasciculatum and Arctostaphylos glandulosa. Malosma laurina and Heteromeles arbutifolia are usually included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may include Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Piptatherum miliaceum, Bromus diandrus, Bromus madritensis, or Marah macrocarpus.

C1188-1/c

244

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glandulosa Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub ADFA ARGL3 MALA6 HEAR5 QUBE5 CEME ARGL4 LOSC2 DERI CEOL CEBE3 PIMO5 RHOV SAME3 ERFA2

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

44

0.5

0.2

2.5

Adenostoma fasciculatum Arctostaphylos glandulosa Malosma laurina Heteromeles arbutifolia Quercus berberidifolia Ceanothus megacarpus Arctostaphylos glauca Lotus scoparius Dendromecon rigida Ceanothus oliganthus Cercocarpus betuloides Pickeringia montana Rhus ovata Salvia mellifera Eriogonum fasciculatum

100 23.8 13.0 40.0 100 15.2 4.0 28.0 56 1.3 0.2 9.0 56 0.8 0.2 5.0 48 1.9 1.0 9.0 44 3.0 1.0 12.0 40 0.4 0.2 3.0 36 0.5 0.2 4.0 36 0.4 0.2 2.5 28 0.8 0.2 8.0 24 0.6 0.2 8.0 24 0.4 0.2 3.0 24 0.2 0.2 2.0 20 0.5 2.0 3.0 20 0.3 0.2 2.5

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Lepechinia fragrans was found in 1of 25 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Piptatherum miliaceum, Spartium junceum, Bromus diandrus, Bromus madritensis, Avena, Bromus hordeaceus, Centaurea melitensis, Erodium cicutarium, Hirschfeldia incana Samples Used in Description: (n = 25) AA0039cc, AA0049cc, AA0484cc, AA0597, AA0688, AA0879, rap0250, rap0254, rap0259m, rap0266m, rap0267, rap0274m, rap0279m, rap0359, rap0361, rap0363, rap0442, rap0502, rap0504, rap0601, rap1291, rap1682, rap1699, rap2543, rap2786 Comments: This is an upper elevation chaparral found on the upper slopes of the Santa Monica Mountains and the Simi Hills. It typically occurs on upper ridges and slopes usually above 600 m on northerly facing slopes. In addition to the main manifestation of codominant A. fasciculatum and A. glandulosa, another phase with a constant presence of Ceanothus megacarpus has been identified. Phases: Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glandulosa (Chamise-Eastwood Manzanita) Phase [2021] Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus megacarpus-Arctostaphylos glandulosa (Chamise-Big Pod Ceanothus-Eastwood Manzanita) Phase [7017]

C1188-1/c

245

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Chamise-Eastwood Manzanita Shrubland Association Arctostaphylos glandulosa Alliance (Reid et al. 1999) Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glandulosa Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi Valley-Santa Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is known from the Santa Monica Mountains as well as several other mountain ranges of southern California including the San Gabriel, San Bernardino, San Jacinto, and peninsular ranges. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: The Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glandulosa Association of California is found on north-facing slopes, outcrops, and ridges on shallow soils. Occurrences range in elevation from 300 to 2,200 m. This alliance often follows disturbance, growing on sites that have been burned, logged, or otherwise disturbed.

Vegetation Description: In western Riverside County, the Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glandulosa Association has Adenostoma fasciculatum and Arctostaphylos glandulosa consistently present, and both species are usually codominant, though sometimes Arctostaphylos glandulosa may be subdominant to Adenostoma fasciculatum. Other chaparral shrubs often intermix as subdominants including Quercus berberidifolia, Heteromeles arbutifolia, and Garrya flavescens. Comments: Very similar stands of this association occur throughout many of the mountain ranges of southern coastal California. References: Borchert et al. 2004, Gordon and White 1994, Klein and Evens 2005, Reid et al. 1999

C1188-1/c

246

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glauca Shrubland Association Chamise-Big Berry Manzanita (Provisional) Shrubland Association Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glauca Shrubland Alliance Chamise-Big Berry Manzanita Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2531 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep northeast- and northwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 367–664 m. It is dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum and Arctostaphylos glauca in the shrub layer with an insignificant herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 367–664 m, mean 445.8 m Aspect: northeast and northwest Slope: range 20–35 degrees, mean 29 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat, undulating, or concave; mid slope to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 30–30%, mean 30% Small Rock Cover: range 2–50%, mean 19.7% Large Rock Cover: range 0–3%, mean 1% Bare Ground: range 8–45%, mean 27% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: coarse loamy sand Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glauca Shrubland form an intermittent shrub layer (40–60%, mean 49.5%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is bare. Trees are not present. Total vegetation cover is 40–60%, mean cover is 49.5%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Malosma laurina, Ceanothus megacarpus, Adenostoma fasciculatum, and Arctostaphylos glauca. Salvia mellifera, Cercocarpus betuloides, and Heteromeles arbutifolia are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is absent. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes contains Bromus madritensis and Centaurea melitensis.

C1188-1/c

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glauca Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ADFA ARGL4 CEME MALA6 SAME3 CEBE3 HEAR5 ERFA2 LOSC2 GAVE2 HASQ2 PIMO5 RHIL RHOV YUWH

Adenostoma fasciculatum Arctostaphylos glauca Ceanothus megacarpus Malosma laurina Salvia mellifera Cercocarpus betuloides Heteromeles arbutifolia Eriogonum fasciculatum Lotus scoparius Garrya veatchii Hazardia squarrosa Pickeringia montana Rhamnus ilicifolia Rhus ovata Yucca whipplei

100 22.3 18.0 28.0 X X 100 17.8 15.0 20.0 X X 100 7.3 4.0 15.0 X 100 0.9 0.2 2.0 X 75 1.5 0.2 5.0 X 75 0.3 0.2 1.0 X 75 0.2 0.2 0.2 X 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 25 0.1 0.2 0.2 25 0.1 0.2 0.2 25 0.1 0.2 0.2 25 0.1 0.2 0.2 25 0.1 0.2 0.2 25 0.1 0.2 0.2

Bromus madritensis Centaurea melitensis Galium

50 50 50

0.1 0.1 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2

0.2 X 0.2 X 0.2 X

Lichen Moss

25 25

0.1 0.1

0.2 0.2

0.2 0.2

Herb BRMA3 CEME2 GALIU Cryptogam LICHEN MOSS

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Bromus madritensis, Centaurea melitensis Samples Used in Description: (n = 4) rap0378, rap0379, rap0412, rap2921 Comments: This association occurs locally in the higher and more inland continental portions of the study area. A. glauca is a xerophytic manzanita, and it commonly codominates with chamise in many of the hotter, drier chaparral stands throughout central and southern California including the western borders of the Mojave and Sonoran deserts. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS

C1188-1/c

Chamise-Big Berry Manzanita Shrubland Association Arctostaphylos glauca Shrubland Alliance (Reid et al. 1999) Shrubland Evergreen shrubland

248

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PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glauca Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S4

Global Description Distribution: This is a common association in the southern and central coastal California area. Nations: United States, Mexico (Baja) States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: Stands are found at elevations between 300 and 1,000 m. Aspect is more often northerly, less often southerly. Slopes are usually moderate to steep with variable topography. Parent material is varied including granitic metamorphic, sedimentary, and igneous. Soil texture is also varied from sandy loam and sand to clay loam. Vegetation Description: In the Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glauca Association, the two species are consistently codominant in the intermittent to dense shrub overstory. A variety of other chaparral species intermixes as subdominants shrubs (e.g., Garrya flavescens, Keckiella antirrhinoides, Prunus ilicifolia, Heteromeles arbutifolia). Comments: This is a common association in the southern and central coastal California area. It has been reported in San Diego, Riverside, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Ventura, San Benito, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and Fresno counties. Its presence reflects somewhat drier and warmer conditions than the Adenostoma fasciculatum-Arctostaphylos glandulosa Association of the A. fasciculatum–A. glandulosa Alliance. Arctostaphylos glauca is an obligate seeder as opposed to A. glandulosa, which is a resprouting species. Similar stands occur as far north as Alameda County in the central coast ranges, though they have not been adequately described (Keeler-Wolf 2005 personal observation). References: Evens and San 2005, Evens et al. 2005, Gordon and White 1994, Klein and Evens 2005, Reid 1999, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus crassifolius-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association Chamise-Hoary Leaf Ceanothus-Laurel sumac Shrubland Association Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus crassifolius Shrubland Alliance Chamise-Hoary Leaf Ceanothus Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2572 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep slopes of variable aspect at low to mid elevations between 17–821 m. It is dominated by both Adenostoma fasciculatum and Ceanothus crassifolius in the shrub layer, although C. crassifolius is typically somewhat higher cover. The herbaceous layer is sparse except for occasional vines of Marah macrocarpa, which may sprawl over the shrubs. Trees are generally absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Simi Hills Inland, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Dry Inland, and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 17–821 m, mean 467.5 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 15–35 degrees, mean 27.1 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating, flat, concave, or convex; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 20–85%, mean 37.9% Small Rock Cover: range 1–40%, mean 13.2% Large Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 1.9% Bare Ground: range 0–60%, mean 29.4% Parent Material: predominantly sedimentary, some igneous Soil Texture: medium loam to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus crassifolius-Malosma laurina Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (22–60%, mean 45.9%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–10 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–13%, mean 2%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–5% cover, mean 0.5%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 32–60%, mean cover is 48.3%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Ceanothus crassifolius, Adenostoma fasciculatum, Salvia mellifera, and Malosma laurina. Heteromeles arbutifolia, Rhus ovata, and Yucca whipplei are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may rarely include Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and may include Marah macrocarpus, Bromus madritensis, Phacelia cicutaria, and Centaurea melitensis.

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Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus crassifolius-Malosma laurina Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub CECR ADFA SAME3 MALA6 HEAR5 RHOV YUWH ERFA2 MIAU

Ceanothus crassifolius Adenostoma fasciculatum Salvia mellifera Malosma laurina Heteromeles arbutifolia Rhus ovata Yucca whipplei Eriogonum fasciculatum Mimulus aurantiacus

100 22.7 7.0 45.0 X X 100 13.8 1.0 35.0 X 81 2.9 0.2 15.0 X 77 3.5 0.2 12.0 X 49 1.0 0.2 10.0 49 0.8 0.2 6.0 42 0.3 0.2 4.0 33 0.5 0.2 5.0 21 0.2 0.2 2.5

MAMA8

Marah macrocarpus

21

Herb 0.2

0.2

3.0

Other Noteworthy Species: Astragalus brauntonii was found in 1 of 43 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, CNPS R-E-D Code is 3-3-3. Global rank is G2, and state rank is S2.1 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is Endangered, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Hemizonia minthornii was found in 1of 43 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G2, and state rank is S2.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is Rare (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus madritensis, Centaurea melitensis, Avena, Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Hirschfeldia incana, Foeniculum vulgare, Nicotiana glauca, Avena fatua, Bromus hordeaceus, Bromus madritensis subsp. rubens, Centaurea solstitialis, Marrubium vulgare, Melilotus indicus, Stellaria media Samples Used in Description: (n = 43) AA0029cc, AA0187cc, AA0188cc, AA0192cc, AA0194cc, AA0200cc, AA0296cc, AA0867, AA0939, AA0967, AA1081, AA1104, rap0399, rap0400, rap0492, rap0781, rap1541, rap1542, rap1545m, rap1611, rap1679, rap1681, rap1683, rap1693, rap1698, rap1779, rap1795, rap1796, rap2039m, rap2043, rap2054, rap2091, rap2092, rap2147, rap2149, rap2172, rap2178, rap2179, rap2289, rap2290, rap2333, rap2336, rap2920 Comments: This association is common in the Simi Hills and at the upper elevation, central portions of the Santa Monica Mountains. The presence of the frost-sensitive Malosma laurina in more than 75% of the samples suggests that this is a relatively warm temperate association of the mixed Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus crassifolius Alliance. Phases: None COMMON NAME

C1188-1/c

Chamise-Hoary Leaf Ceanothus-Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association 251

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus crassifolius Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Similar stands occur in western Riverside County (Klein and Evens 2005) and other parts of the peninsular range (Gordon and White 1994); however, they do not have Malosma laurina as a constant. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Gordon and White 1994, Klein and Evens 2005

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus cuneatus-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association Chamise-Wedge Leaf Ceanothus-Black Sage-Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus cuneatus Shrubland Alliance Chamise-Wedge Leaf Ceanothus Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2511 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on moderately steep to very steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 109–521 m. It is dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum and Ceanothus cuneatus with Salvia mellifera and Malosma laurina as constant subdominants in the shrub layer. It has a low cover of mostly nonnative exotics in the herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer may include Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains and Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 109–521 m, mean 306 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 9–55 degrees, mean 28.8 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating or convex; lower slope to ridge Litter Cover: range 15–25%, mean 20% Small Rock Cover: range 5–40%, mean 22% Large Rock Cover: range 0–3%, mean 1.6% Bare Ground: range 15–44%, mean 33.4% Parent Material: predominantly igneous, some sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy or silty clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus cuneatus-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (18–52%, mean 40.5%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0.5–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–15%, mean 3.4%) at 0–0.5 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–3% cover, mean 0.5%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 22–52%, mean cover is 44%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Ceanothus cuneatus, Adenostoma fasciculatum, and Eriogonum fasciculatum. Salvia mellifera, Malosma laurina, Rhus ovata, and Yucca whipplei are usually included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may include Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and occasionally includes Centaurea melitensis and Bromus madritensis. Other herbs sometimes include Dudleya pulverulenta, Chlorogalum pomeridianum, and Hemizonia fasciculata.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus cuneatus-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub ADFA CECU ERFA2 SAME3 MALA6 RHOV YUWH CEBE3 QUBE5 ARCA11 LOSC2 HEAR5 Herb CEME2 AVENA BRMA3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

25

0.3

Adenostoma fasciculatum Ceanothus cuneatus Eriogonum fasciculatum Salvia mellifera Malosma laurina Rhus ovata Yucca whipplei Cercocarpus betuloides Quercus berberidifolia Artemisia californica Lotus scoparius Heteromeles arbutifolia

100 15.0 2.5 25.0 X X 100 11.2 3.0 18.0 X 75 1.7 0.2 8.0 X 67 3.7 1.0 10.0 67 1.4 0.2 3.0 67 1.2 0.2 7.0 67 0.9 0.2 4.0 42 0.7 0.2 5.0 33 1.6 2.5 7.0 33 0.5 1.0 2.5 33 0.1 0.2 1.0 25 0.6 1.0 4.0

Centaurea melitensis Avena Bromus madritensis

50 33 25

1.3 0.8 0.1

0.2

0.2 0.2 0.2

3.0

7.0 X 4.0 1.0

X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Avena, Bromus madritensis, Avena fatua, Bromus hordeaceus, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus diandrus Samples Used in Description: (n = 12) AA0124cc, AA0489cc, AA0490cc, AA1106, rap0402, rap0572, rap1628, rap2032, rap2134, rap2136, rap2144, rap2829 Comments: This association is the only expression of this widespread California alliance locally. It occurs sporadically mostly in the central portion of the Santa Monica Mountains at mid elevations. It remains to be seen how closely related it is to other stands of this alliance reported from other parts of southern California (Gordon and White 1994, Klein and Evens 2005, Borchert et al. 2004). Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP

C1188-1/c

Chamise-Wedge Leaf Ceanothus-Black Sage-Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland

254

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PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Adenostoma fasciculatum-Ceanothus cuneatus Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Similar stands occur to the north in the Santa Ynez region (Borchert et al. 2004), but those stands have not been differentiated at the association level. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Borchert et al. 2004, Gordon and White 1994, Klein and Evens 2005

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255

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Association Chamise-Black Sage Shrubland Association Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Alliance Chamise-Black Sage Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2036 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep southeast- to northwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 114–510 m. It is dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum and Salvia mellifera in the shrub layer with a typically sparse herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer is typically nonexistent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Dry Inland, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Western Fog Zone, and Eastern Urban regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 114–510 m, mean 297.4 m Aspect: southeast to northwest Slope: range 15–42 degrees, mean 27.2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 18–18%, mean 18% Small Rock Cover: range 10–30%, mean 20.8% Large Rock Cover: range 0–10%, mean 3.2% Bare Ground: range 15–65%, mean 35.8% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: medium loam to moderately fine sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (20–45%, mean 34.2%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0.5–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–15%, mean 4.3%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–10% cover, mean 1%) with hardwoods at 0–5 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 31–45%, mean cover is 39.5%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Adenostoma fasciculatum, Salvia mellifera, and Yucca whipplei. Artemisia californica is usually present, and Eriogonum fasciculatum and Lotus scoparius are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Nassella lepida and Trichostema lanatum. Other herbs occasionally include Centaurea melitensis, Bromus diandrus, Calystegia macrostegia, Cuscuta californica, Bromus madritensis, and Melica imperfecta.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ADFA SAME3 YUWH ARCA11 ERFA2 LOSC2 HEAR5 MALA6 CEBE3 HASQ2

Adenostoma fasciculatum Salvia mellifera Yucca whipplei Artemisia californica Eriogonum fasciculatum Lotus scoparius Heteromeles arbutifolia Malosma laurina Cercocarpus betuloides Hazardia squarrosa

100 16.6 6.0 30.0 X X 100 12.0 5.0 23.0 X X 82 0.7 0.2 2.5 X 55 0.9 0.2 6.0 45 0.7 0.2 3.0 45 0.4 0.2 3.0 27 0.4 0.2 2.0 27 0.1 0.2 1.0 27 0.1 0.2 0.2 27 0.1 0.2 0.2

NALE2 TRLA3

Nassella lepida Trichostema lanatum

27 27

Herb 0.5 0.1

0.2 0.2

5.0 0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 11 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Lepechinia fragrans was found in 1of 11 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Avena barbata, Bromus madritensis, Bromus diandrus, Centaurea melitensis, Avena fatua, Schinus molle, Avena, Hirschfeldia incana, Brassica nigra, Bromus hordeaceus, Rosmarinus officinalis, Sonchus oleraceus Samples Used in Description: (n = 11) AA0315cc, AA0762, rap0569, rap0588, rap0708, rap1224, rap1778, rap1824, rap1856, rap2119, rap2833 Comments: Locally this association is often seral showing the evidence of recent fire such as the presence of Hazardia squarrosa and Lotus scoparius. However, some stands of this association appear to have persisted for much longer periods since the most recent fire event. In general, most of the local stands seem to have a stronger affinity toward coastal scrub species than toward chaparral as indicated by the average constancy of the most common shrub species. This is a transitional association that would be valuable to monitor over the long term to clarify regional trends in scrub dynamics between chaparral and coastal scrub vegetation formations. Phases: None COMMON NAME

C1188-1/c

Chamise-Black Sage Shrubland Association

257

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is found in the central coast of California (including Santa Clara County) and in southern California (including inner south coast; western transverse ranges; and Santa Ana, San Jacinto, San Gabriel, and San Bernardino mountains) per Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf (1995). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: Stands are found at elevations between 100 and 1,000 m on all aspects. Slopes are gentle to steep with variable topography. Parent material is more often granite and less often sedimentary, metamorphic, gabbro, diorite, or metavolcanic. Soil texture varies from sandy loam to silty clay loam. Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Shrubland form an open to continuous shrub layer (10–75%, mean 44.2%) where Adenostoma fasciculatum usually codominates with Salvia mellifera. The shrub layer is often in two different strata with low shrubs at 0.5–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to continuous (0.2–75%, mean 22.7%) at 0–1 m tall with a variety of native and nonnative species (see species table). Total vegetation cover is 38–85%, mean cover is 59.2%. Comments: This is a widespread association in the central and southern coastal parts of California. It is one of the classic intermixings of chaparral and coastal sage scrub in the California mediterranean climate. References: Borchert et al. 2004, Evens and San 2005, Gordon and White 1994, Klein and Evens 2005, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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258

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association Chamise-Black Sage-Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Alliance Chamise-Black Sage Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2035 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 0–648 m. It is codominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum and Salvia mellifera in the shrub layer with Malosma laurina as a subdominant. It has an insignificant herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer is usually absent but infrequently includes occasional individuals of Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Hills Inland, Western Fog Zone, Dry Inland, Immediate Coast, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and the Eastern Urban regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–648 m, mean 400 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 4–35 degrees, mean 25 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat, undulating, or convex; lower slope to ridge Litter Cover: range 0–45%, mean 19.4% Small Rock Cover: range 1–60%, mean 27.5% Large Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 3% Bare Ground: range 0–55%, mean 33.9% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: medium loam to moderately fine sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (18–50%, mean 36.5%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–17%, mean 1.2%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–3% cover, mean 0.2%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 28–52%, mean cover is 37.9%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Adenostoma fasciculatum, Salvia mellifera, and Malosma laurina. Yucca whipplei and Eriogonum fasciculatum are usually included in this layer, and Lotus scoparius is occasionally present. The tree layer is emergent and open and may rarely include Quercus agrifolia and/or Juglans californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, and Trichostema lanatum. Other herbs may include Bromus madritensis and/or Galium angustifolium.

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Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ADFA SAME3 MALA6 YUWH ERFA2 LOSC2 CEME CEBE3 RHOV HEAR5 ARCA11 MAFA

Adenostoma fasciculatum Salvia mellifera Malosma laurina Yucca whipplei Eriogonum fasciculatum Lotus scoparius Ceanothus megacarpus Cercocarpus betuloides Rhus ovata Heteromeles arbutifolia Artemisia californica Malacothamnus fasciculatus

100 16.6 5.0 30.0 X X 100 10.1 5.0 25.0 X 96 4.2 0.2 15.0 X 62 0.8 0.2 4.0 53 0.6 0.2 4.0 45 0.5 0.2 6.0 38 0.8 0.2 5.0 32 0.2 0.2 2.0 30 0.3 0.2 3.0 28 0.3 0.2 4.0 21 0.4 0.2 7.5 21 0.2 0.2 3.0

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 2 of 53 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Leptodactylon californicum was found in 1 of 53 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G5T3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Avena, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus diandrus, Bromus hordeaceus, Avena barbata, Erodium, Erodium cicutarium, Lamium amplexicaule, Marrubium vulgare, Melilotus indicus Samples Used in Description: (n = 53) AA0161cc, AA0186cc, AA0241cc, AA0357cc, AA0360cc, AA0361cc, AA0367cc, AA0404, AA0486cc, AA0527, AA0564, AA0565, AA0568, AA0646, AA0649, AA0650, AA0652, AA0772, AA0799, AA0874, AA0962, AA0974, AA1070, rap0106, rap0227m, rap0432, rap0457m, rap0493, rap0494, rap0568, rap0570, rap0707, rap0917m, rap1117, rap1238, rap1239, rap1263, rap1284, rap1331, rap1565, rap1566, rap1605, rap1696, rap1769, rap1797, rap1987, rap2010, rap2035, rap2080, rap2137, rap2282, rap2321, rap2859rlv Comments: This is a very common and widespread association within the Santa Monica Mountains but is not known elsewhere. The presence of Malosma laurina within stands of A. fasciculatum and Salvia mellifera is apparently largely restricted to the coastal strip of southern California. As with the A. fasciculatum-S. mellifera association of the same alliance, this association is often indicative of relatively recent fire. Phases: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Chamise-Black Sage-Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera-Rhus ovata Shrubland Association Chamise-Black Sage-Sugar Bush Shrubland Association Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Alliance Chamise-Black Sage Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2038 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 17–552 m. It is dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum and Salvia mellifera in the shrub layer with Rhus ovata as a subdominant. The herbaceous layer is generally poorly developed. The emergent tree layer is generally absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Dry Inland and Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Hills Inland, and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 17–552 m, mean 354.5 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 15–38 degrees, mean 30.2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat, convex, or undulating; lower slope to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 15–30%, mean 22.5% Small Rock Cover: range 5–30%, mean 15% Large Rock Cover: range 0–2%, mean 0.4% Bare Ground: range 10–50%, mean 31% Parent Material: sedimentary, some igneous Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera-Rhus ovata Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (32–60%, mean 42.4%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–3%, mean 0.6%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–2% cover, mean 0.2%) with hardwoods at 0–10m tall. Total vegetation cover is 33–62%, mean cover is 43.3%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Adenostoma fasciculatum, Salvia mellifera, and Rhus ovata. Eriogonum fasciculatum and Malacothamnus fasciculatus are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and infrequently includes Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and may include Centaurea melitensis, Cuscuta californica, and Trichostema lanatum.

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Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera-Rhus ovata Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ADFA SAME3 RHOV ERFA2 MAFA YUWH MALA6 HEAR5 CEBE3 SALE3 CECU CEME QUBE5 ARCA11

Adenostoma fasciculatum Salvia mellifera Rhus ovata Eriogonum fasciculatum Malacothamnus fasciculatus Yucca whipplei Malosma laurina Heteromeles arbutifolia Cercocarpus betuloides Salvia leucophylla Ceanothus cuneatus Ceanothus megacarpus Quercus berberidifolia Artemisia californica

100 19.7 10.0 28.0 X X 100 10.5 0.2 25.0 X 100 5.5 2.0 15.0 X 46 1.7 0.2 9.0 42 1.3 0.2 9.0 38 0.4 0.2 2.5 33 0.5 0.2 5.0 29 0.7 0.2 7.5 25 0.4 0.2 2.5 25 0.4 0.2 5.0 21 0.6 0.2 7.5 21 0.6 0.2 6.0 21 0.6 1.0 5.0 21 0.4 0.2 7.5

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Avena, Bromus madritensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Brassica nigra, Bromus hordeaceus, Marrubium vulgare Samples Used in Description: (n = 24) AA0047cc, AA0092cc, AA0179cc, AA0204cc, AA0236cc, AA0397cc, AA0492cc, AA0581, AA0600, AA0602, AA0604, AA0694, AA0820, AA1182, rap1561, rap1562, rap1793, rap1801, rap1919, rap2003, rap2007, rap2011, rap2025, rap2031 Comments: This association is the most inland of the three locally represented associations of the Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Alliance. Rhus ovata is most commonly found in the hotter and more dry continental climates of southern California; in the local area these stands may be found in areas that experience frequent frost in winter. The hybridization between Rhus ovata and Rhus integrifolia in the study area makes many individual shrubs in the genus Rhus difficult to identify. Occasional hybrids were found in these stands, but most Rhus appeared to be more characteristic of R. ovata. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP

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Chamise-Black Sage-Sugar Bush Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural

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FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma sparsifolium Shrubland Alliance Redshank Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2050 Local Description Summary: This shrubland alliance occurs on somewhat steep southwest- and southeast-facing slopes at low to mid elevations between 356–844 m. It is dominated by Adenostoma sparsifolium in the shrub layer. The emergent tree layer includes occasional Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This alliance is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 356–844 m, mean 656 m Aspect: southwest and southeast Slope: range 15–35 degrees, mean 21.6 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating or concave; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: no data Large Rock Cover: 25% Bare Ground: no data Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: no data Vegetation Description: Stands of this shrubland alliance form an intermittent shrub layer (47–52%, mean 49.3%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0.5–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is bare (0%). Trees are occasionally emergent (0–0.2% cover, mean 0.1%) with hardwoods at 0–5 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 47–52%, mean cover is 49.3%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Adenostoma sparsifolium, Rhus ovata, Ceanothus spinosus, and Malosma laurina. Heteromeles arbutifolia, Salvia mellifera, Ceanothus megacarpus, and Adenostoma fasciculatum are often included in this layer. Occasional, small trees are emergent and may include Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Leymus condensatus and Bromus sp.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Adenostoma sparsifolium Alliance Layer Code Tree Understory QUAG-M Shrub ADSP CESP MALA6 RHOV CEME ADFA SAME3 CEBE3 HEAR5 MAFA ARCA11 ERCO25 LEFR MIAU RHIL Herb BROMU LECO12

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

33

0.1

Adenostoma sparsifolium Ceanothus spinosus Malosma laurina Rhus ovata Ceanothus megacarpus Adenostoma fasciculatum Salvia mellifera Cercocarpus betuloides Heteromeles arbutifolia Malacothamnus fasciculatus Artemisia californica Eriophyllum confertiflorum Lepechinia fragrans Mimulus aurantiacus Rhamnus ilicifolia

100 18.3 7.0 25.0 X X 100 13.7 4.0 23.0 X X 100 3.0 3.0 3.0 X 100 0.8 0.2 2.0 X 67 4.3 5.0 8.0 67 1.4 0.2 4.0 67 1.1 0.2 3.0 67 0.1 0.2 0.2 67 0.1 0.2 0.2 33 0.3 1.0 1.0 33 0.1 0.2 0.2 33 0.1 0.2 0.2 33 0.1 0.2 0.2 33 0.1 0.2 0.2 33 0.1 0.2 0.2

Bromus Leymus condensatus

33 33

0.1 0.1

0.2

0.2 0.2

0.2

0.2 0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: Lepechinia fragrans was found in 1of 3 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: None Samples Used in Description: (n = 3) rap0527m, rap2496, rap2928 Comments: Most stands with significant A. sparsifolium in the Santa Monica Mountains are considered part of the A. sparsifolium-Adenostoma fasciculatum Alliance. The three relatively pure stands represented in this alliance level description all have relatively high cover of Ceanothus spinosus and with further verification may be considered to be an A. sparsifolium-C. spinosus Association. Such stands are apparently rare in the study area and are not likely to be found outside of the study area. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS

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Redshank Alliance Ribbonwood or Chamise-Redshank Community III. Shrubland

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PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.2. Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland III.A.2.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.2.N.C. Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Adenostoma sparsifolium Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This alliance occurs from California's central coast, south into the cismontane transverse and peninsular ranges, extending into northern Baja California, Mexico. Nations: United States, Mexico States or Provinces: CA, Baja California Norte Environmental Description: The Adenostoma sparsifolium Shrubland Alliance grows on dry slopes and flats with deep soils derived from alluvium or bedrock. Stands occur from 300 to 2,000 m in elevation. This alliance is adapted to slightly cooler temperatures and drier conditions than other widespread chaparral vegetation types. Summers are dry and winters are relatively cool and moist. This alliance often occurs in a mosaic with the Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance. Keeler-Wolf et al. (1998) show an Adenostoma sparsiflorum Alliance and the closely related Adenostoma fasciculatum-Adenostoma sparsiflorum Alliance as occurring adjacent to desert vegetation types along much of the northwestern portion of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Vegetation Description: This shrubland of California and Baja California is dominated by Adenostoma sparsifolium that may be the sole shrub in the canopy. Other shrubs may include Cercocarpus montanus var. glaber, Adenostoma fasciculatum, Ceanothus greggii, Rhamnus ilicifolia, Quercus corneliusmulleri, and Garrya veatchii. The herbaceous layer is sparse. Comments: In a study of the range of Adenostoma sparsifolium, Marion (1943) found monotypic stands of redshank in just 3% of its distribution; more often it intermixes with chamise. References: Keeler-Wolf et al. 1998, Marion 1943, Reid et al. 1999, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Arctostaphylos glandulosa Shrubland Alliance Eastwood Manzanita Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2550 Local Description Summary: This shrubland alliance occurs on somewhat steep to steep northwest-facing slopes at low to middle to high elevations between 557–878 m. It is dominated by Arctostaphylos glandulosa in the shrub layer and has an insignificant herbaceous layer in the mature stands. The emergent tree layer includes Quercus agrifolia in about one-third of the stand sampled. Distribution: This alliance is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 557–878 m, mean 755 m Aspect: northwest Slope: range 20–35 degrees, mean 27.6 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating or concave; middle slope to ridge Litter Cover: 75% Small Rock Cover: range 5–13%, mean 9% Large Rock Cover: range 3–15%, mean 9% Bare Ground: range 2–10%, mean 6% Parent Material: igneous or metamorphic Soil Texture: medium to very fine loamy sand Vegetation Description: Stands of this shrubland alliance form an intermittent shrub layer (38–65%, mean 54.3%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0.5–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is bare ( 45%. Vegetation Description: Based on 14 plots sampled in the Santa Ynez Mountains of Santa Barbara County, Borchert et al. 2004 add this information to the local description above: Big pod ceanothus dominates this alliance with an average cover of 73%. Chamise and holly leaf cherry have constancies > 50% but their average covers are < 10%. Comments: See local description. References: Borchert et al. 2004, Holland 1986

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Association Big Pod Ceanothus-Chamise Shrubland Association Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Alliance Big Pod Ceanothus Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2083 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 0–688 m. It is characterized by the dominance of Ceanothus megacarpus and subdominance (averaging about half as much cover) of Adenostoma fasciculatum in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is insignificant. The emergent tree layer may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Immediate Coast, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–688 m, mean 372.9 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 15–35 degrees, mean 26 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating, convex, or flat; middle to upper slope Litter Cover: range 10–65%, mean 41% Small Rock Cover: range 1–50%, mean 15.5% Large Rock Cover: range 0–8%, mean 2.8% Bare Ground: range 10–65%, mean 24.5% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland form an open to continuous shrub layer (15–70%, mean 46.1%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–16%, mean 1.4%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (1–5% cover, mean 0.2%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 20–70%, mean cover is 47.3%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Ceanothus megacarpus, Adenostoma fasciculatum, and Salvia mellifera. Malosma laurina and Heteromeles arbutifolia are usually included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Bromus madritensis, Piptatherum miliaceum, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus diandrus, and Leymus condensatus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma fasciculatum Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub CEME ADFA SAME3 MALA6 HEAR5 CEBE3 ERFA2 LOSC2 YUWH CESP RHOV MIAU

Ceanothus megacarpus Adenostoma fasciculatum Salvia mellifera Malosma laurina Heteromeles arbutifolia Cercocarpus betuloides Eriogonum fasciculatum Lotus scoparius Yucca whipplei Ceanothus spinosus Rhus ovata Mimulus aurantiacus

100 22.9 6.0 38.0 100 12.9 2.0 30.0 77 3.4 0.2 15.0 68 1.5 0.2 5.0 52 0.5 0.2 3.0 35 0.7 0.2 5.0 35 0.5 0.2 7.5 35 0.4 0.2 5.0 35 0.3 0.2 2.5 29 1.2 0.2 11.0 29 0.2 0.2 3.0 23 0.4 0.2 7.0

X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 1 of 31 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Lepechinia fragrans was found in 2 of 31 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Leptodactylon californicum was found in 1 of 31 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G5T3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Piptatherum miliaceum, Bromus madritensis, Bromus diandrus, Centaurea melitensis, Avena, Brassica nigra, Carduus pycnocephalus, Euphorbia terracina, Lactuca canadensis, Nerium oleander, Brassica, Erodium, Hirschfeldia incana, Melilotus indicus Samples Used in Description: (n = 31) AA0054cc, AA0091cc, AA0096cc, AA0288cc, AA0673, AA0708, AA0712, AA0822, AA0857, AA0895, AA0902, AA0921, AA1057, AA1207, rap0006, rap0021m, rap0139, rap0154, rap0159, rap0181, rap0222, rap0285, rap0380, rap0545, rap0586, rap1339, rap1383, rap1492, rap1648, rap1880, rap2666 Comments: The combination of C. megacarpus and Adenostoma fasciculatum is a common occurrence in these mountains. Two phases have been identified—one with higher cover and frequency of Salvia mellifera.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma fasciculatum (Big Pod Ceanothus-Chamise) Phase [2083] Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera (Big Pod CeanothusChamise-Black Sage) Phase [7083] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Big Pod Ceanothus-Chamise Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Alliance

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: Historically, the balance between the Adenostoma fasciculatum (and related Adenostoma fasciculatum codominant alliances such as A. fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera) and the Ceanothus megacarpus Alliance may have been different. Early mapping by the U.S. Forest Service VTM crews (John Tiszler, Robert Taylor personal communication 2003) suggest that in the 1930s the predominant chaparral stands were dominated or codominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum. However, currently, Franklin 1998 and current mapping for this project suggest that C. megacarpus dominated chaparral has taken over as the principal cover. The interface of these two main dominance types occurs in associations such as this one. Thus, monitoring plots within such stands may afford a more complete understanding of overall trends of vegetation dominance within the area. References: Franklin 1998

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma sparsifolium Shrubland Association Big Pod Ceanothus-Redshank Shrubland Association Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Alliance Big Pod Ceanothus Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2082 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep slopes of variable aspect at low to mid elevations between 383–847 m. It is characterized by a dominance of Ceanothus megacarpus and a subdominance of Adenostoma sparsifolium in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is insignificant. The emergent tree layer is generally absent but may include Quercus agrifolia and Umbellularia californica. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 383–847 m, mean 640 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 15–42 degrees, mean 30.6 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating, convex, or flat; middle slope to ridgetop Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: range 5–40%, mean 20% Large Rock Cover: range 1–18%, mean 6.8% Bare Ground: range 5–35%, mean 20.6% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: medium loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma sparsifolium Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (31–65%, mean 48.4%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–4%, mean 0.7%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–3% cover, mean 0.3%) with hardwoods at 0–15 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 35–65%, mean cover is 49.1%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Ceanothus megacarpus, Adenostoma sparsifolium, Malosma laurina, and Adenostoma fasciculatum. Salvia mellifera is often present, and Rhus ovata is occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and infrequently includes Quercus agrifolia and Umbellularia californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Bromus madritensis, Bromus hordeaceus, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus diandrus, Avena barbata, and Marah macrocarpus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus megacarpus-Adenostoma sparsifolium Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub CEME ADSP MALA6 ADFA SAME3 RHOV HEAR5 CEBE3 CESP ERFA2 YUWH MIAU CEOL ERCO25 LOSC2

Ceanothus megacarpus Adenostoma sparsifolium Malosma laurina Adenostoma fasciculatum Salvia mellifera Rhus ovata Heteromeles arbutifolia Cercocarpus betuloides Ceanothus spinosus Eriogonum fasciculatum Yucca whipplei Mimulus aurantiacus Ceanothus oliganthus Eriophyllum confertiflorum Lotus scoparius

100 25.7 14.0 52.0 X X 100 12.8 5.0 20.0 X 80 1.9 0.2 8.0 X 76 3.9 0.2 15.0 X 60 1.0 0.2 5.0 48 0.4 0.2 3.0 40 0.3 0.2 2.5 36 0.4 0.2 4.0 32 0.5 0.2 7.0 28 0.3 0.2 2.5 28 0.1 0.2 0.2 24 0.2 0.2 3.0 20 0.4 1.0 4.0 20 0.1 0.2 1.0 20 0.01 0.2 0.2

BRMA3

Bromus madritensis

20

Herb 0.1

0.2

2.0

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 25 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Lepechinia fragrans was found in 4 of 25 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus madritensis, Bromus hordeaceus, Avena barbata, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus diandrus, Avena, Erodium cicutarium, Lamarckia aurea Samples Used in Description: (n = 25) AA0055cc, AA0563, AA1190, AA1192, AA1203, AA1204, AA1215, AA1218, AA1219, rap0526m, rap0578m, rap0579, rap0581, rap0582, rap0628, rap0786m, rap1488, rap1489, rap1490, rap1493, rap1771, rap1785, rap2423, rap2429, rap2431 Comments: This association is likely to be largely endemic to the Santa Monica Mountains. Elsewhere, A. sparsifolium typically occurs at either more inland localities or at elevations greater than the range of Ceanothus megacarpus. Most of these stands occur on northerly facing steep slopes above 600 m. Mature stands tend to have a two-layered canopy with the A. sparsifolium projecting 1–3 m above the subcanopy of C. megacarpus. More recently burned stands tend to have a relatively even canopy.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Big Pod Ceanothus-Redshank Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus megacarpus-Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Association Big Pod Ceanothus-Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany Shrubland Association Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Alliance Big Pod Ceanothus Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2084 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep northwest- and northeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 110–701 m. It is characterized by a dominance of Ceanothus megacarpus and a subdominance of Cercocarpus betuloides in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is generally insignificant in mature stands. The emergent tree layer is generally absent but may contain both introduced and native species. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Immediate Coast, and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 110–701 m, mean 370.8 m Aspect: northwest and northeast Slope: range 2–40 degrees, mean 25.1 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 25–55%, mean 40% Small Rock Cover: range 5–30%, mean 15.4% Large Rock Cover: range 0–2%, mean 0.6% Bare Ground: range 5–35%, mean 20.3% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: medium to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Ceanothus megacarpus-Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland form an open to dense shrub layer (39–65%, mean 51.9%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–5%, mean 0.7%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–16% cover, mean 1.2%) with conifers at 0–10 m tall and hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 39–65%, mean cover is 53.1%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Ceanothus megacarpus, Cercocarpus betuloides, Adenostoma fasciculatum, and Heteromeles arbutifolia. Malosma laurina and Ceanothus spinosus are often included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Umbellularia californica and Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and may include Leymus condensatus, Bromus madritensis, and Avena sp.

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Ceanothus megacarpus-Cercocarpus betuloides Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub CEME CEBE3 ADFA HEAR5 MALA6 CESP SAME3 QUBE5 ADSP MAFA RHOV MIAU LOSC2 YUWH

Ceanothus megacarpus Cercocarpus betuloides Adenostoma fasciculatum Heteromeles arbutifolia Malosma laurina Ceanothus spinosus Salvia mellifera Quercus berberidifolia Adenostoma sparsifolium Malacothamnus fasciculatus Rhus ovata Mimulus aurantiacus Lotus scoparius Yucca whipplei

100 27.8 14.0 45.0 88 9.7 0.2 23.0 82 2.4 0.2 5.0 76 0.4 0.2 2.5 59 1.1 0.2 5.0 53 1.2 0.2 7.0 47 0.4 0.2 2.5 41 4.6 0.2 25.0 35 0.7 0.2 3.0 35 0.4 0.2 3.0 35 0.3 0.2 3.0 24 0.3 0.2 2.5 24 0.3 0.2 3.0 24 0.01 0.2 0.2

LECO12

Leymus condensatus

24

X X X X

Herb 0.2

0.2

2.5

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 1of 17 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Lepechinia fragrans was found in 1of 17 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Avena, Bromus madritensis, Eucalyptus, Bromus hordeaceus, Avena barbata, Bromus diandrus, Centaurea melitensis Samples Used in Description: (n = 17) AA0065cc, AA0067cc, AA0402, AA0862, rap0148, rap0236, rap0239m, rap0302, rap0404m, rap0576m, rap0580, rap0590m, rap1653, rap1737, rap2447, rap2500, rap2567 Comments: This association tends to occur on northerly facing steep slopes where insolation is intermediate between ridges and concave-sheltered slopes. It is likely to be endemic to the Santa Monica Mountains and perhaps other parts of the western transverse ranges of California. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM

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Big Pod Ceanothus-Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany Shrubland Association None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus megacarpus-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association Big Pod Ceanothus-Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Alliance Big Pod Ceanothus Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2087 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to very steep slopes of variable aspect at low to mid elevations between 42–780 m. It is characterized by a dominance of Ceanothus megacarpus and a subdominance of Malosma laurina in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is insignificant in older stands. The emergent tree layer is generally absent but can include Quercus agrifolia, Umbellularia californica, Juglans californica, Pinus sp., and Eucalyptus sp. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Eastern Urban, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Western Fog Zone, Immediate Coast, Simi Hills Inland, and Dry Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 42–780 m, mean 395.8 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–50 degrees, mean 29.2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 15–60%, mean 30% Small Rock Cover: range 2–55%, mean 19.1% Large Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 2.5% Bare Ground: range 5–65%, mean 24.6% Parent Material: sedimentary or igneous Soil Texture: medium loam to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Ceanothus megacarpus-Malosma laurina Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (23–65%, mean 47.1%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0.5–10 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–25%, mean 1.6%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–9% cover, mean 0.4%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 35–65%, mean cover is 49%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Ceanothus megacarpus and Malosma laurina. Adenostoma fasciculatum and Heteromeles arbutifolia are often present, and Salvia mellifera is sometimes included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Marah macrocarpus, Centaurea melitensis, Brassica nigra, Melica imperfecta, and Bromus madritensis.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus megacarpus-Malosma laurina Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub CEME MALA6 ADFA HEAR5 SAME3 ERFA2 RHOV CESP YUWH MIAU

Ceanothus megacarpus Malosma laurina Adenostoma fasciculatum Heteromeles arbutifolia Salvia mellifera Eriogonum fasciculatum Rhus ovata Ceanothus spinosus Yucca whipplei Mimulus aurantiacus

100 24.9 7.5 45.0 100 11.7 2.0 33.0 71 2.7 0.2 13.0 66 1.9 0.2 19.0 63 1.8 0.2 10.0 46 0.9 0.2 7.0 44 0.6 0.2 6.0 33 0.8 0.2 8.0 27 0.2 0.2 2.5 26 0.3 0.2 5.0

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 3 of 99 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Brassica nigra, Bromus madritensis, Nicotiana glauca, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus diandrus, Avena, Piptatherum miliaceum, Avena fatua, Pennisetum setaceum, Stellaria media, Ageratina adenophora, Eucalyptus, Ailanthus altissima, Avena barbata, Brassica, Carduus pycnocephalus, Galium aparine, Marrubium vulgare, Melilotus, Nerium oleander, Schinus molle Samples Used in Description: (n=99) AA0058cc, AA0061cc, AA0062cc, AA0093cc, AA0098cc, AA0136cc, AA0140cc, AA0235cc, AA0270cc, AA0279cc, AA0386, AA0413, AA0416, AA0419, AA0430, AA0483cc, AA0487cc, AA0518, AA0520, AA0553, AA0559, AA0598, AA0639, AA0657, AA0662, AA0692, AA0702, AA0704, AA0715, AA0729, AA0730, AA0788, AA0880, AA0897, AA0917, AA0930, AA0944, AA1005, AA1038, AA1049, AA1053, AA1067, AA1122, AA1173, AA1196, rap0007, rap0196, rap0210, rap0221m, rap0287, rap0294, rap0317, rap0329m, rap0341, rap0343, rap0345, rap0346, rap0356, rap0364m, rap0376, rap0377, rap0413, rap0422, rap0434, rap0552, rap0672, rap0760, rap0775, rap0824, rap0827m, rap0862, rap0953, rap1125, rap1160, rap1163, rap1335, rap1336, rap1381, rap1409m, rap1414, rap1467, rap1519, rap1643, rap1703, rap1734, rap1740, rap2058, rap2098, rap2101, rap2182, rap2192, rap2219, rap2267, rap2368, rap2369, rap2658, rap2780, rap2787, rap2791 Comments: This is one of the most well sampled and most common associations in the mapping area. It is essentially a mix of two of the most abundant and characteristic shrub species of the study area. It may be broken up into several phases (see below). These are generally based on the degree of codominance or subdominance of other species such as Adenostoma fasciculatum with M. laurina and C. megacarpus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: Ceanothus megacarpus-Malosma laurina (Big Pod Ceanothus-Laurel Sumac) Phase [2087] Ceanothus megacarpus-Malosma laurina-Adenostoma fasciculatum Mixed Chaparral (Big Pod Ceanothus-Laurel Sumac-Chamise Mixed Chaparral) Phase [7081] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUB GROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Big Pod Ceanothus-Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. It is likely to be restricted to the western transverse ranges of southern California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus megacarpus-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Association Big Pod Ceanothus-Black Sage Shrubland Association Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Alliance Big Pod Ceanothus Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 7085 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to very steep southwest- and southeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 49–636 m. It is characterized by Ceanothus megacarpus as a dominant and Salvia mellifera as a subdominant in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is insignificant. The emergent tree layer is largely absent in most stands. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Eastern Urban, Immediate Coast, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Western Fog Zone, Simi Hills Inland, and Dry Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 49–636 m, mean 322.7 m Aspect: southwest and southeast Slope: range 2–55 degrees, mean 31.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); middle slope to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 10–55%, mean 26.7% Small Rock Cover: range 0–75%, mean 25.8% Large Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 3.5% Bare Ground: range 0–70%, mean 22.8% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Ceanothus megacarpus-Salvia mellifera Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (21–62%, mean 38.9%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0.5–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–15%, mean 2.9%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–5% cover, mean 0.3%) with hardwoods at 0–15 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 25–65%, mean cover is 42.2%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Ceanothus megacarpus, Malosma laurina, and Salvia mellifera. Eriogonum fasciculatum, Eriogonum cinereum, Yucca whipplei, and Adenostoma fasciculatum are often included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Juglans californica and Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Melica imperfecta, Leymus condensatus, and Brassica nigra.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus megacarpus-Salvia mellifera Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub CEME MALA6 SAME3 ERFA2 ERCI5 YUWH ADFA ARCA11 RHOV HEAR5 ENCA CESP LOSC2 MIAU MAFA

Ceanothus megacarpus Malosma laurina Salvia mellifera Eriogonum fasciculatum Eriogonum cinereum Yucca whipplei Adenostoma fasciculatum Artemisia californica Rhus ovata Heteromeles arbutifolia Encelia californica Ceanothus spinosus Lotus scoparius Mimulus aurantiacus Malacothamnus fasciculatus

100 12.4 3.0 35.0 X X 93 7.8 0.2 20.0 X 83 5.9 0.2 20.0 X 57 3.1 0.2 20.0 55 2.7 0.2 15.0 55 0.4 0.2 2.5 52 0.8 0.2 3.0 41 1.1 0.2 12.0 41 0.9 0.2 8.0 40 1.0 0.2 15.0 38 1.2 0.2 15.0 22 0.4 0.2 5.0 22 0.3 0.2 3.0 21 0.4 0.2 8.0 21 0.3 0.2 6.0

CEME2 BRMA3

Centaurea melitensis Bromus madritensis

24 22

Herb 0.3 0.4

0.2 2.5 0.2 10.0

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 5 of 58 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Avena barbata, Avena, Hirschfeldia incana, Avena fatua, Piptatherum miliaceum, Bromus hordeaceus, Nicotiana glauca, Erodium cicutarium, Foeniculum vulgare, Marrubium vulgare, Schinus molle, Ageratina adenophora, Brassica, Galium aparine, Lobularia maritima, Pennisetum setaceum, Stellaria media Samples Used in Description: (n = 58) AA0005cc, AA0071cc, AA0097cc, AA0132cc, AA0135cc, AA0137cc, AA0251cc, AA0284cc, AA0290cc, AA0345, AA0368cc, AA0418, AA0513, AA0620, AA0693, AA0714, AA0728, AA0937, AA1078, AA1109, rap0008, rap0031, rap0111, rap0121, rap0149m, rap0151, rap0183m, rap0217, rap0292, rap0312, rap0387m, rap0469, rap0548, rap0766, rap0809, rap0833, rap0835, rap1187, rap1211, rap1213m, rap1221, rap1304m, rap1357, rap1384, rap1385, rap1410, rap1412, rap1413, rap1508m, rap1709, rap1738, rap1743, rap2125, rap2190, rap2488, rap2499m, rap2606, rap2748 Comments: Stands of this association occur on hot, dry southerly facing slopes throughout the study area. Both main shrub species are unlikely to form an association outside the western transverse ranges of Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Los Angeles counties.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Big Pod Ceanothus-Black Sage Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: Both main shrub species are unlikely to form an association outside the western transverse ranges of Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Los Angeles counties. References: None

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338

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus oliganthus Shrubland Association Hairy Leaf Ceanothus Shrubland Association Ceanothus oliganthus Shrubland Alliance Hairy Leaf Ceanothus Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2072 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep slopes of variable aspect at low to mid elevations between 498–847 m. It is characterized by a strong dominance of Ceanothus oliganthus in the shrub layer, although a variety of other shrubs may occur occasionally at low cover. The emergent tree layer occasionally includes Quercus agrifolia and Umbellularia californica. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 498–847 m, mean 719.8 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 3–35 degrees, mean 22.8 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat, concave, or undulating; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: range 3–30%, mean 15.3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–20%, mean 7.7% Bare Ground: range 10–32%, mean 18.7% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: moderately fine silty clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Ceanothus oliganthus Shrubland form an intermittent to continuous shrub layer (36–65%, mean 55.5%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 2–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is bare. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–12% cover, mean 3.3%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 48–65%, mean cover is 58.8%. In this association, the shrub layer is dominated by Ceanothus oliganthus. Heteromeles arbutifolia is also characteristic, but at lower cover. Adenostoma sparsifolium and Quercus berberidifolia are often present, and Ceanothus megacarpus is sometimes included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may include Quercus agrifolia and Umbellularia californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and occasionally includes Avena barbata, Bromus diandrus, and Bromus hordeaceus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus oliganthus Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T UMCA-T Tree Understory QUAG-M UMCA-M Shrub CEOL HEAR5 ADSP QUBE5 CEME ADFA RHOV GAVE2 LEFR LULO CECR ARGL3 MIAU PRIL DERI ERFA2 ARCTO3 RIMA

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Umbellularia californica

50 20

1.4 0.2

1.0 1.0

7.0 X 1.0

Quercus agrifolia Umbellularia californica

20 20

1.0 0.7

5.0 2.0

5.0 5.0

Ceanothus oliganthus Heteromeles arbutifolia Adenostoma sparsifolium Quercus berberidifolia Ceanothus megacarpus Adenostoma fasciculatum Rhus ovata Garrya veatchii Lepechinia fragrans Lupinus longifolius Ceanothus crassifolius Arctostaphylos glandulosa Mimulus aurantiacus Prunus ilicifolia Dendromecon rigida Eriogonum fasciculatum Arctostaphylos Ribes malvaceum

100 44.6 21.0 58.0 X X 90 1.7 0.2 7.0 X 70 2.6 1.0 8.0 60 1.2 0.2 5.0 40 0.4 0.2 2.5 30 0.3 0.2 3.0 30 0.2 0.2 1.0 30 0.1 0.2 1.0 30 0.1 0.2 0.2 20 1.5 0.2 15.0 20 0.6 0.2 6.0 20 0.4 0.2 4.0 20 0.4 0.2 4.0 20 0.2 0.2 2.0 20 0.2 1.0 1.0 20 0.1 0.2 1.0 20 0.01 0.2 0.2 20 0.01 0.2 0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: Lepechinia fragrans was found in 3 of 10 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis Samples Used in Description: (n = 10) AA0056cc, AA0819, rap0265, rap0778m, rap0779m, rap0783, rap0787m, rap0789m, rap0796m, rap2382 Comments: Ceanothus oliganthus in southern California tends to be a montane species. In the study area, it may be considered as an upper-elevation analog to Ceanothus spinosus, replacing it largely above 700 m. It is an obligate seeder and tends to senesce after about three to four decades (Borchert et al. 2004). This association is more common at lower elevations in the Simi Hills than in the main portion of the Santa Monica Mountains.

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Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Hairy Leaf Ceanothus Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Ceanothus oliganthus Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. It is likely to occur in a number of areas from Monterey County to San Diego County but has not been adequately treated at the association level to determine its full extent. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: Klein and Evens 2005, Evens and San 2005, and Borchert et al. 2004 have reported on stands of Ceanothus oliganthus that resemble these relatively pure stands in the SAMO study area. However, they have not had the sufficient number of stands to further differentiate their examples at the association level. Recent sampling in the peninsular ranges of San Diego County (KeelerWolf personal observation 2005) suggests there are other early seral postfire Ceanothus oliganthus associations, which may occur in mixed coniferous forests up to 1,800 m in association with emergent Quercus chrysolepis and Pinus coulteri. References: Borchert et al. 2004, Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005

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341

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus oliganthus-Adenostoma sparsifolium Shrubland Association Hairy Leaf Ceanothus-Redshank Shrubland Association Ceanothus oliganthus Shrubland Alliance Hairy Leaf Ceanothus Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2078 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on moderate to steep northwest- to southeast-facing slopes at low to mid elevations between 621–879 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Ceanothus oliganthus and Adenostoma sparsifolium in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is insignificant. The emergent tree layer includes Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 621–879 m, mean 744.8 m Aspect: northwest to southeast Slope: range 7–35 degrees, mean 22.5 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); middle slope to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 25–75%, mean 48.8% Small Rock Cover: range 4–45%, mean 18.2% Large Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 4.2% Bare Ground: range 10–45%, mean 20.6% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: medium loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Ceanothus oliganthus-Adenostoma sparsifolium Shrubland form an intermittent shrub layer (38–65%, mean 50.4%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–2%, mean 0.4%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–7% cover, mean 1.2%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 38–65%, mean cover is 51.9%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Adenostoma sparsifolium and Ceanothus oliganthus. Adenostoma fasciculatum are usually present, while Ceanothus megacarpus, Quercus berberidifolia, and Lepechinia fragrans are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may occasionally include Quercus agrifolia and Umbellularia californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Centaurea melitensis, Marah macrocarpus, Bromus madritensis, Melica imperfecta, and Leymus condensatus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus oliganthus-Adenostoma sparsifolium Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub ADSP CEOL ADFA CEME QUBE5 LEFR MIAU CEBE3 SAME3 HEAR5 RHOV CECR MALA6 ARGL3 PRIL RHIL RIMA

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

35

0.6

0.2

5.0

Adenostoma sparsifolium Ceanothus oliganthus Adenostoma fasciculatum Ceanothus megacarpus Quercus berberidifolia Lepechinia fragrans Mimulus aurantiacus Cercocarpus betuloides Salvia mellifera Heteromeles arbutifolia Rhus ovata Ceanothus crassifolius Malosma laurina Arctostaphylos glandulosa Prunus ilicifolia Rhamnus ilicifolia Ribes malvaceum

100 17.3 5.0 38.0 96 17.0 2.0 35.0 61 1.0 0.2 7.0 57 4.0 0.2 16.0 48 1.6 0.2 17.0 48 1.3 0.2 8.0 43 0.7 0.2 10.0 39 2.2 0.2 20.0 39 0.4 0.2 2.0 35 0.5 0.2 6.0 35 0.3 0.2 2.5 30 1.3 0.2 10.0 26 1.0 0.2 18.0 26 0.4 1.0 2.5 22 1.0 0.2 16.0 22 0.1 0.2 1.0 22 0.1 0.2 1.0

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Lepechinia fragrans was found in 11 of 23 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Piptatherum miliaceum, Brassica nigra, Bromus hordeaceus, Bromus diandrus Samples Used in Description: (n = 23) AA0205cc, AA0915, AA1199, rap0262, rap0309m, rap0540, rap0616, rap0773, rap0774, rap0780, rap0788m, rap0797, rap0798, rap1491, rap1536, rap1773, rap1780, rap1783, rap1820, rap2400, rap2424, rap2800, rap2935 Comments: Although both A. sparsifolium and C. oliganthus codominate in these stands, the ecological relationships borne out in the cluster analysis suggest this association should be classified within the Ceanothus oliganthus Alliance and not the Adenostoma sparsifolium Alliance. This is likely to be an endemic association to the Santa Monica Mountains. No other reports of this type have been alluded to in other studies of southern California chaparral. The Boney Ridge area of the high west-central portion of the study area appears to be the stronghold for this association. This is generally the only portion of the study area where elevations are high enough to support both of the characteristic species of this association. At lower elevation, Ceanothus oliganthus can be replaced by Ceanothus spinosus.

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Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Hairy Leaf Ceanothus-Redshank Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Ceanothus oliganthus Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G2S2

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus oliganthus-Heteromeles arbutifolia-Rhus ovata Shrubland Association Hairy Leaf Ceanothus-Toyon Shrubland Association Ceanothus oliganthus Shrubland Alliance Hairy Leaf Ceanothus Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2076 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep northeast- and northwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 336–677 m. It is characterized by the dominance of Ceanothus oliganthus and subdominance of Heteromeles arbutifolia in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is generally sparse. The emergent tree layer includes occasional Juglans californica and Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Simi Hills, Inland Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 336–677 m, mean 506 m Aspect: northeast and northwest Slope: range 15–35 degrees, mean 30.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating or concave; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: 5% Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: 10% Parent Material: sedimentary or igneous Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Ceanothus oliganthus-Heteromeles arbutifolia-Rhus ovata Shrubland form an intermittent shrub layer (38–60%, mean 51.9%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–20%, mean 2.9%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–12% cover, mean 2.4%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 45–63%, mean cover is 57%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Ceanothus oliganthus, Heteromeles arbutifolia, Adenostoma fasciculatum, and Rhus ovata. Malosma laurina and Ceanothus crassifolius are often included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may occasionally include Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Leymus condensatus, Marah macrocarpus, Delphinium cardinale, and Bromus madritensis.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus oliganthus-Heteromeles arbutifolia-Rhus ovata Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T JUCA-T Shrub CEOL HEAR5 ADFA RHOV CECR MALA6 CEBE3 SAME3 PRIL SAME5 MIAU QUBE5 Herb LECO12

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Juglans californica

50 21

1.4 0.7

0.2 1.0

Ceanothus oliganthus Heteromeles arbutifolia Adenostoma fasciculatum Rhus ovata Ceanothus crassifolius Malosma laurina Cercocarpus betuloides Salvia mellifera Prunus ilicifolia Sambucus mexicana Mimulus aurantiacus Quercus berberidifolia

100 26.2 15.0 42.0 X X 86 7.2 0.2 15.0 X 79 5.5 0.2 15.0 X 79 4.6 1.0 13.0 X 57 1.4 1.0 4.0 57 1.3 0.2 6.0 43 2.1 2.0 9.0 36 1.0 0.2 8.0 36 0.8 0.2 4.0 36 0.3 0.2 2.5 21 0.7 2.0 4.0 21 0.7 0.2 8.0

Leymus condensatus

21

0.01 0.2

7.0 X 5.0

0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 4 of 14 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Ailanthus altissima, Bromus madritensis, Centaurea melitensis, Robinia Samples Used in Description: (n = 14) AA0033cc, AA0294cc, rap0246, rap1452, rap2056, rap2093m, rap2094, rap2175m, rap2228m, rap2335, rap2356, rap2405, rap2406, rap2649 Comments: This is the most widespread of the Ceanothus oliganthus associations in the study area. It is more common in the Simi Hills region but also occurs at upper elevations in the main portion of the Santa Monica Mountains. It can be considered as the mesic expression of this alliance between the relatively xeric C. oliganthus-A. sparsifolium and the more mesophytic C. oliganthusQuercus berberidifolia associations in moisture relations. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP

C1188-1/c

Hairy Leaf Ceanothus-Toyon Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural

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FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Ceanothus oliganthus Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This association is only known so far from the SAMO study area but may occur elsewhere in central or south-coastal California. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus oliganthus-Quercus berberidifolia Shrubland Association Hairy Leaf Ceanothus-Scrub Oak Shrubland Association Ceanothus oliganthus Shrubland Alliance Hairy Leaf Ceanothus Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2077 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep northeast- and northwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 332–729 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Ceanothus oliganthus and Quercus berberidifolia in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is sparse and insignificant. The emergent tree layer occasionally includes Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 332–729 m, mean 663.5 m Aspect: northeast and northwest Slope: range 4–35 degrees, mean 18.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): convex or flat; bottom to middle slope Litter Cover: range 2–80%, mean 50.5% Small Rock Cover: range 2–10%, mean 5.1% Large Rock Cover: range 0–85%, mean 12.8% Bare Ground: range 2–35%, mean 17% Parent Material: quaternary or igneous Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Ceanothus oliganthus-Quercus berberidifolia Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (10–65%, mean 49.3%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0.5–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–5%, mean 0.8%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–5% cover, mean 1.2%) with hardwoods at 0–15 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 12–65%, mean cover is 50.3%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Ceanothus oliganthus. Quercus berberidifolia, Adenostoma fasciculatum, Arctostaphylos glandulosa, and Heteromeles arbutifolia are often present, and Cercocarpus betuloides and Ceanothus megacarpus are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may occasionally include Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Bromus diandrus, Piptatherum miliaceum, and Centaurea melitensis.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus oliganthus-Quercus berberidifolia Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub CEOL QUBE5 ADFA ARGL3 HEAR5 CEME CEBE3 MIAU RHOV MAFA DERI LOSC2 GAVE2 CELE2 ADSP ERFA2 CECR HASQ2 Herb BRDI3 CEME2 PIMI3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

25

0.2

Ceanothus oliganthus Quercus berberidifolia Adenostoma fasciculatum Arctostaphylos glandulosa Heteromeles arbutifolia Ceanothus megacarpus Cercocarpus betuloides Mimulus aurantiacus Rhus ovata Malacothamnus fasciculatus Dendromecon rigida Lotus scoparius Garrya veatchii Ceanothus leucodermis Adenostoma sparsifolium Eriogonum fasciculatum Ceanothus crassifolius Hazardia squarrosa

100 19.1 2.5 48.0 X X 100 12.0 2.5 32.0 X 92 3.3 0.2 13.0 X 75 2.2 0.2 12.0 X 75 1.8 0.2 8.0 X 50 2.8 1.0 14.0 50 1.1 0.2 8.0 42 1.1 0.2 6.0 42 0.4 0.2 3.0 33 1.8 0.2 13.0 33 0.9 1.0 8.0 33 0.3 0.2 2.0 33 0.2 0.2 1.0 25 0.9 0.2 10.0 25 0.8 0.2 5.0 25 0.3 0.2 3.0 25 0.2 0.2 2.0 25 0.1 0.2 1.0

Bromus diandrus Centaurea melitensis Piptatherum miliaceum

42 25 25

0.1 0.1 0.1

0.2

0.2 0.2 0.2

1.0

0.2 0.2 0.2

X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Hemizonia minthornii was found in 1 of 12 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G2, and state rank is G2 CNPS 2005). Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is Rare (SAMO 2004). Lepechinia fragrans was found in 2 of 12 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Centaurea melitensis, Piptatherum miliaceum, Eucalyptus, Spartium junceum, Bromus hordeaceus, Brassica nigra, Schinus molle, Avena, Avena barbata, Bromus madritensis, Foeniculum vulgare, Galium aparine, Lolium, Marrubium vulgare, Phoenix canariensis Samples Used in Description: (n = 12) AA0163cc, rap0260, rap0271m, rap0272, rap0280m, rap0281, rap0283, rap0307m, rap0627, rap1656, rap1657m, rap2242

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Comments: This association, only known from the SAMO study area, may be the most mesic expression of this alliance. It is restricted to moist northerly facing slopes and generally occurs on lower portions of the slopes. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Hairy Leaf Ceanothus-Scrub Oak Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Ceanothus oliganthus Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. It is likely that this association may occur elsewhere particularly northward into the central coast ranges of California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland Association Greenbark Ceanothus Shrubland Association Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland Alliance Greenbark Ceanothus Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2092 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on moderately steep to very steep northeast- and northwestfacing slopes at low elevations between 0–692 m. It is characterized by a strong dominance of Ceanothus spinosus in the shrub layer and may include a wide variety of mesophytic species in the herbaceous layer, none apparently in high constancy. The emergent tree layer includes Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Eastern Urban, Immediate Coast, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–692 m, mean 385.5 m Aspect: northeast and northwest Slope: range 10–48 degrees, mean 29.8 degrees Topography (micro; macro): concave, convex, or flat; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 25–70%, mean 51.4% Small Rock Cover: range 0–35%, mean 9.9% Large Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 1.6% Bare Ground: range 0–75%, mean 18.2% Parent Material: sedimentary or igneous Soil Texture: medium loam to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland form an open to continuous shrub layer (10–68%, mean 53.6%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–10 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent (0–57%, mean 3.4%) at 0–2 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–45% cover, mean 2%) with conifers at 0–10 m tall and hardwoods at 0–15 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 38–70%, mean cover is 58.1%. In this association, the shrub layer is dominated by Ceanothus spinosus. Heteromeles arbutifolia is also characteristic but at lower cover. Malosma laurina and Ceanothus megacarpus are often present, while Rhus ovata is occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may include Quercus agrifolia, Juglans californica, and Umbellularia californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Leymus condensatus, Marah macrocarpus, Melica imperfecta, and Bromus diandrus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus spinosus Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T JUCA-T Shrub CESP HEAR5 MALA6 CEME RHOV PRIL CEBE3 MIAU ADFA SAME5

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Juglans californica

37 24

0.8 0.5

0.2 0.2

5.0 7.0

Ceanothus spinosus Heteromeles arbutifolia Malosma laurina Ceanothus megacarpus Rhus ovata Prunus ilicifolia Cercocarpus betuloides Mimulus aurantiacus Adenostoma fasciculatum Sambucus mexicana

100 39.2 5.0 65.0 79 3.1 0.2 20.0 60 2.6 0.2 26.0 51 1.5 0.2 9.0 49 1.2 0.2 25.0 40 1.6 0.2 20.0 34 0.6 0.2 11.0 33 0.7 0.2 7.5 26 0.5 0.2 9.0 22 0.2 0.2 6.0

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Baccharis plummerae was found in 1 of 134 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-1-3. Global rank is G3T3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 42 of 134 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Lepechinia fragrans was found in 6 of 134 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Leptodactylon californicum was found in 1 of 134 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G5T3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Centaurea melitensis, Brassica nigra, Nicotiana glauca, Senecio mikanioides, Carduus pycnocephalus, Bromus madritensis, Avena, Bromus hordeaceus, Galium aparine, Hirschfeldia incana, Avena fatua, Piptatherum miliaceum, Stellaria media, Schinus molle, Eucalyptus, Avena barbata, Briza maxima, Foeniculum vulgare, Medicago polymorpha, Melilotus indicus, Ricinus communis, Sonchus oleraceus Samples Used in Description: (n = 134) AA0027cc, AA0052cc, AA0063cc, AA0090cc, AA0131cc, AA0170cc, AA0171cc, AA0201cc, AA0202cc, AA0210cc, AA0214cc, AA0217cc, AA0239cc, AA0269cc, AA0311cc, AA0333, AA0425, AA0433, AA0436, AA0441, AA0456cc, AA0551, AA0556, AA0611, AA0631, AA0635, AA0642, AA0705, AA0811, AA0812, AA0836, AA0855, AA0876, AA0878, AA0894, AA0918,

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

AA0924, AA0938, AA0945, AA0992, AA1006, AA1025, AA1036, AA1046, AA1054, AA1073, AA1079, AA1112, AA1131, AA1138, AA1143, AA1154, AA1184, rap0013m, rap0018m, rap0130, rap0156, rap0232, rap0233m, rap0253, rap0256, rap0318m, rap0325, rap0328m, rap0332m, rap0348, rap0351, rap0373, rap0405, rap0408, rap0426m, rap0427, rap0450, rap0456, rap0471m, rap0473m, rap0477, rap0478, rap0497, rap0501, rap0534, rap0537m, rap0538, rap0566, rap0573, rap0589, rap0594, rap0635m, rap0681m, rap0765, rap0767, rap0768, rap1175, rap1225, rap1227, rap1232, rap1237, rap1255, rap1256m, rap1287, rap1341, rap1371, rap1486, rap1494, rap1516, rap1520, rap1569, rap1584, rap1587, rap1622m, rap1623m, rap1646, rap1700, rap1704, rap1739, rap2078, rap2135, rap2143m, rap2163, rap2342, rap2385, rap2399, rap2443, rap2444, rap2589, rap2599, rap2607, rap2693, rap2694, rap2717, rap2723, rap2782, rap2810, rap2934 Comments: This is an abundant association in the study area. Although typical of concave north-facing slopes at mid and lower elevations, it may also occur on drier exposures closer to the coast where summer fog may ameliorate evapotranspiration. This relatively tall, arborescent chaparral association often occurs adjacent to stands of Quercus agrifolia, Juglans californica, or even riparian woodlands, suggesting a relatively high moisture regime. Three phases have been identified that suggests relatively more (Ceanothus spinosus-Heteromeles arbutifolia-Prunus ilicifolia) or less (Ceanothus spinosus-Malosma laurina) mesic settings. The association with Malosma laurina may also indicate increased fire frequency. Phases: Ceanothus spinosus (Greenbark Ceanothus) Phase [2092] Ceanothus spinosus-Heteromeles arbutifolia-Prunus ilicifolia (Greenbark Ceanothus-Toyon-Holly Leaf Cherry) Phase [2094] Ceanothus spinosus-Malosma laurina (Greenbark Ceanothus-Laurel Sumac) Phase [2097] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Greenbark Ceanothus Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: Based on the similarities of this association with the alliance description in Borchert et al. 2004, we can extrapolate the following from their general description and state: The greenbark ceanothus alliance is prominent on north-facing slopes, although it also occurs on ocean-facing slopes. Most stands occupy mesic (solar insolation < 200), moderately steep (> 50%) slopes on a variety of exposures, although north-facing aspects are most common. Vegetation Description: The following information has been excerpted from Borchert et al. 2004 in their description of the alliance in the Santa Ynez Mountains: Although greenbark ceanothus clearly dominates this alliance, holly leaf cherry (Prunus ilicifolia) and toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia) are almost always associated with it, indicating that these species form a plant association within the greenbark ceanothus alliance. Co-occurring species in this alliance may be different on ocean-facing slopes of the Santa Ynez Mountains. Comments: Based on the comments of Borchert et al. 2004, it is likely that this association is the principal one found in the Santa Monica Mountains and in the Santa Ynez Mountains to the north and west of this study area. Although Heteromeles arbutifolia is a common associate of this association, it was not found to be a strong enough indicator to warrant an entire association. A Ceanothus spinosus-Heteromeles arbutifolia-Prunus ilicifolia phase of this association has been identified, which is analogous to the situation described by Borchert et al. 2004 above. References: Borchert et al. 2004

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January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus spinosus-Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Association Greenbark Ceanothus-Big Pod Ceanothus Shrubland Association Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland Alliance Greenbark Ceanothus Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2091 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on moderately steep to steep northeast- and northwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 0–749 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Ceanothus spinosus and C. megacarpus in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is diverse but has no constant indicators and generally provides little cover. The emergent tree layer includes occasional Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Eastern Urban, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Immediate Coast, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–749 m, mean 395 m Aspect: northeast and northwest Slope: range 10–40 degrees, mean 32.9 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 25–60%, mean 48.3% Small Rock Cover: range 5–45%, mean 14.9% Large Rock Cover: range 0–7%, mean 2.2% Bare Ground: range 7–45%, mean 21% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: medium loam to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Ceanothus spinosus-Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland form an open to continuous shrub layer (32–66%, mean 53.3%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–25%, mean 1.7%) at 0–2 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–11% cover, mean 1.5%) with conifers at 0–15 m tall and hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 40–67%, mean cover is 56.2%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Ceanothus spinosus, Ceanothus megacarpus, and Malosma laurina. Heteromeles arbutifolia is often present, and Rhus ovata is occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may include Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Melica imperfecta, Leymus condensatus, Brassica nigra, Marah macrocarpus, and Bromus madritensis.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Ceanothus spinosus-Ceanothus megacarpus Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub CESP CEME MALA6 HEAR5 RHOV ADFA MIAU PRIL SAME3 CEBE3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

31

0.9

0.2 10.0

Ceanothus spinosus Ceanothus megacarpus Malosma laurina Heteromeles arbutifolia Rhus ovata Adenostoma fasciculatum Mimulus aurantiacus Prunus ilicifolia Salvia mellifera Cercocarpus betuloides

100 22.7 5.0 50.0 X X 100 18.8 5.0 45.0 X X 78 3.2 0.2 12.0 X 70 2.9 0.2 16.0 41 0.7 0.2 7.0 37 0.7 0.2 7.0 33 0.7 0.2 5.0 28 0.5 0.2 5.0 26 0.8 0.2 12.0 26 0.5 0.2 8.0

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 12 of 54 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Lepechinia fragrans was found in 1 of 54 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Nicotiana glauca, Bromus madritensis, Brassica nigra, Hirschfeldia incana, Foeniculum vulgare, Centaurea melitensis, Piptatherum miliaceum, Eucalyptus, Bromus diandrus, Erodium, Bromus hordeaceus, Senecio mikanioides, Avena, Ageratina adenophora, Conyza canadensis, Erodium cicutarium, Malva parviflora, Marrubium vulgare Samples Used in Description: (n = 54) AA0025cc, AA0094cc, AA0203cc, AA0227cc, AA0258cc, AA0340, AA0348, AA0457cc, AA0632, AA0644, AA0661, AA0663, AA0706, AA0734, AA0831, AA0865, AA0889, AA0925, AA1140, AA1205, rap0017m, rap0122, rap0153m, rap0184, rap0216m, rap0224m, rap0230m, rap0237m, rap0296m, rap0315, rap0316, rap0353, rap0598m, rap0615, rap0817, rap0823m, rap0825m, rap0929, rap0952, rap1289, rap1379, rap1382, rap1406, rap1575, rap1576, rap1577m, rap1650, rap1879, rap2103, rap2343, rap2345, rap2346, rap2486, rap2667 Comments: In this association, the two principal members of the two main chaparral alliances endemic to the western transverse ranges comingle. Because C. megacarpus is typical of relatively xeric settings and C. spinosus is conversely typical of mesic settings, it stands to reason that this mixing of the two species falls in between. Thus, although the stands of this association tend to occur on northerly facing slopes, they usually occur on the upper slopes, toward the ridges and on minor convexities. Either species of Ceanothus may dominate with more than twice the cover of the other, although C. spinosus is more frequently dominant.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Greenbark Ceanothus-Big Pod Ceanothus Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Association Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany Shrubland Association Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Alliance Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2114 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on moderately steep to steep northeast- and northwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 10–661 m. It is characterized by a dominance of Cercocarpus betuloides in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer has no characteristic species. The emergent tree layer may include infrequent Quercus agrifolia, Juglans californica, Platanus racemosa, and Umbellularia californica. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast, Western Fog Zone, Eastern Urban, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 10–661 m, mean 233.5 m Aspect: northeast and northwest Slope: range 8–8 degrees, mean 31.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 55–65%, mean 59.3% Small Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 8.8% Large Rock Cover: range 0–12%, mean 3.4% Bare Ground: range 0–55%, mean 19.7% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland form an open to continuous shrub layer (16–68%, mean 46.7%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–28%, mean 4%) at 0–2 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–7% cover, mean 0.8%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 37–70%, mean cover is 51.1%. In this association, the shrub layer is dominated by Cercocarpus betuloides. Heteromeles arbutifolia is also characteristic but at lower cover. Malosma laurina is often present, while Ceanothus spinosus and Ceanothus megacarpus are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Leymus condensatus, Melica imperfecta, Marah macrocarpus, Phacelia sp., Nassella sp., and Bromus diandrus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Cercocarpus betuloides Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub CEBE3 HEAR5 MALA6 CESP CEME ADFA MIAU SAME3 ARCA11 PRIL RHOV SAME5

Cercocarpus betuloides Heteromeles arbutifolia Malosma laurina Ceanothus spinosus Ceanothus megacarpus Adenostoma fasciculatum Mimulus aurantiacus Salvia mellifera Artemisia californica Prunus ilicifolia Rhus ovata Sambucus mexicana

100 31.8 12.0 65.0 X X 76 3.1 0.2 15.0 X 52 1.0 0.2 7.0 50 1.5 0.2 12.0 43 1.0 0.2 8.0 40 1.1 0.2 16.0 36 1.1 0.2 8.0 36 0.8 0.2 6.0 33 0.5 0.2 5.0 31 0.5 0.2 5.0 29 0.5 0.2 5.0 29 0.3 0.2 4.0

LECO12

Leymus condensatus

38

Herb 1.0

0.2 10.0

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus plummerae was found in 1 of 42 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 5 of 42 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Lepechinia fragrans was found in 1 of 42 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Woodwardia fimbriata was found in 2 of 42 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Locally Rare. CNPS ranks this species as none, CNPS R-E-D Code is 0-0-0. Global rank is none, and state rank is none (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Bromus hordeaceus, Centaurea melitensis, Avena fatua, Bromus madritensis, Piptatherum miliaceum, Hirschfeldia incana, Avena barbata, Capsella bursa-pastoris, Carduus pycnocephalus, Erodium, Malva parviflora, Nicotiana glauca, Ricinus communis, Stellaria media, Ageratina adenophora, Bromus tectorum, Cistus, Galium aparine, Marrubium vulgare Samples Used in Description: (n = 42) AA0141cc, AA0408, AA0435, AA0711, AA0716, AA0719, AA0901, AA0927, AA1022, AA1029, AA1091, AA1162, AA1191, AA1214, rap0127, rap0369, rap0676, rap0716, rap0718, rap0724, rap0754m, rap1030, rap1031, rap1105m, rap1252, rap1651m, rap1663, rap1664, rap1762m,

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

rap1855, rap1857m, rap1859, rap2139, rap2141, rap2142, rap2408m, rap2551, rap2620, rap2671, rap2690, rap2802, rap2909 Comments: This is the most widespread of the four associations of Cercocarpus betuloides in the study area. It is often found on steep, usually upper northerly facing slopes. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains and western Riverside County (Klein and Evens 2005). Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory; however, it is likely to occur more widely throughout California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: Cercocarpus betuloides is usually the dominant species in the shrub overstory. A variety of shrubs consistently intermix as subdominants including Heteromeles arbutifolia, Ceanothus crassifolius, Rhamnus ilicifolia, Prunus ilicifolia, and Salvia mellifera. Other species that commonly occur at low cover include the shrub Adenostoma fasciculatum and herb Dudleya pulverulenta (in western Riverside County). Comments: This association appears to be widespread throughout coastal California and may also range into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada (Keeler-Wolf, personal observation). References: Klein and Evens 2005

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360

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Cercocarpus betuloides-Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Association Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany-Chamise Shrubland Association Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Alliance Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2115 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep northwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 154–618 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Cercocarpus betuloides and Adenostoma fasciculatum in the shrub layer. Melica imperfecta occurs regularly in many of the stands at low cover in the herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer includes Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Eastern Urban, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Hills Inland, and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 154–618 m, mean 315.5 m Aspect: northwest Slope: range 15–40 degrees, mean 32.5 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); middle to upper slope Litter Cover: range 8–55%, mean 31.5% Small Rock Cover: range 8–35%, mean 20.6% Large Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 4.2% Bare Ground: range 15–32%, mean 22.4% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: medium to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Cercocarpus betuloides-Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland form an intermittent shrub layer (35–52%, mean 43.7%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0.5–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–20%, mean 4.9%) at 0–2 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–4% cover, mean 0.9%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 35–60%, mean cover is 49.8%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Adenostoma fasciculatum, Cercocarpus betuloides, Heteromeles arbutifolia, and Malosma laurina. Salvia mellifera is often present and Quercus berberidifolia is occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and infrequently includes Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and may include Melica imperfecta, Phacelia sp., Brassica nigra, Bromus madritensis, Bromus diandrus, Marah macrocarpus, and Centaurea melitensis.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Cercocarpus betuloides-Adenostoma fasciculatum Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ADFA CEBE3 HEAR5 MALA6 SAME3 QUBE5 CEME CECR KECO LONIC LOSC2 DERI MIAU CESP MAFA

Adenostoma fasciculatum Cercocarpus betuloides Heteromeles arbutifolia Malosma laurina Salvia mellifera Quercus berberidifolia Ceanothus megacarpus Ceanothus crassifolius Keckiella cordifolia Lonicera Lotus scoparius Dendromecon rigida Mimulus aurantiacus Ceanothus spinosus Malacothamnus fasciculatus

100 13.3 4.0 24.0 X X 100 13.0 7.5 23.0 X 82 2.6 0.2 10.0 X 82 1.2 0.2 3.0 X 73 2.5 0.2 10.0 45 1.2 0.2 6.0 36 1.4 1.0 6.0 36 0.9 0.2 5.0 27 1.1 1.0 6.0 27 0.8 0.2 6.0 27 0.6 0.2 4.0 27 0.6 1.0 3.0 27 0.5 1.0 3.0 27 0.5 0.2 4.0 27 0.2 0.2 2.0

MEIM

Melica imperfecta

27

Herb 0.9

1.0

5.0

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Centaurea melitensis, Brassica nigra, Bromus madritensis, Senecio mikanioides, Avena, Bromus hordeaceus, Galium aparine Samples Used in Description: (n = 11) AA0476cc, AA1090, rap0366, rap0705m, rap0859, rap0861, rap1684, rap2073, rap2598, rap2789, rap2825 Comments: This association occurs often at the head of small ravines and canyons on northerly exposures where there is an intermediate set of moisture conditions between convex and concave topography that allows a blending of the two dominant shrubs. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE

C1188-1/c

Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany-Chamise Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Alliance

362

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is also known from other regions of southern California including western San Gabriel and San Bernardino mountains, the San Jacinto Mountains, and the southern peninsular ranges as well as the Santa Monica Mountains. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: Elsewhere it occurs on low to moderately high elevations on moderately steep to steep, southeast- to northeast-facing slopes. Geologic substrate is usually granitic and the soil group is usually alfisols.

Vegetation Description: Elsewhere it is similar to above local description. The two main species of the association are regularly codominant, and there is usually some Eriogonum fasciculatum present (Gordon and White 1994). Comments: Interestingly, two recent studies of the vegetation of western Riverside County (Klein and Evens 2005) and San Dieguito River watershed (Evens and San 2005) failed to find this particular association. References: Evens and San 2005, Gordon and White 1994, Klein and Evens 2005

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363

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Cercocarpus betuloides-Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland Association Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany-Greenbark Ceanothus Shrubland Association Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Alliance Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2113 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep northwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 64–526 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Cercocarpus betuloides and Ceanothus spinosus in the shrub layer and an insignificant herbaceous layer with occasional Leymus condensatus. The emergent tree layer includes occasional Quercus agrifolia and rarely Juglans californica and Platanus racemosa. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 64–526 m, mean 317 m Aspect: northwest Slope: range 15–45 degrees, mean 31.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating or flat; middle to upper slope Litter Cover: range 50–70%, mean 60% Small Rock Cover: range 2–18%, mean 8.3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–8%, mean 2% Bare Ground: range 12–42%, mean 22.8% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: medium loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Cercocarpus betuloides-Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (29–60%, mean 52.4%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 2–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–7%, mean 1.9%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–21% cover, mean 2.1%) with hardwoods at 0–15 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 47–65%, mean cover is 55.3%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Ceanothus spinosus, Cercocarpus betuloides, and Prunus ilicifolia. Heteromeles arbutifolia, Malosma laurina, Ceanothus megacarpus, and Adenostoma fasciculatum are usually included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may occasionally include Juglans californica and Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Leymus condensatus, Bromus diandrus, and Melica imperfecta.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Cercocarpus betuloides-Ceanothus spinosus Association Layer Code Tree Understory QUAG-M Shrub CESP CEBE3 PRIL HEAR5 CEME ADFA MALA6 RHOV SAME3 ERFA2 MIAU Herb LECO12

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

27

0.1

Ceanothus spinosus Cercocarpus betuloides Prunus ilicifolia Heteromeles arbutifolia Ceanothus megacarpus Adenostoma fasciculatum Malosma laurina Rhus ovata Salvia mellifera Eriogonum fasciculatum Mimulus aurantiacus

100 20.1 10.0 35.0 X X 100 15.7 9.0 25.0 X X 82 1.9 0.2 5.0 X 64 1.7 1.0 5.0 55 4.9 2.0 22.0 55 1.9 0.2 7.0 55 0.9 0.2 5.0 45 0.6 1.0 3.0 36 1.0 0.2 5.0 36 0.1 0.2 1.0 27 1.2 0.2 13.0

Leymus condensatus

36

0.3

0.2

0.2

0.2

2.0

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 2 of 11 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Leptodactylon californicum was found in 1 of 11 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G5T3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Bromus madritensis, Avena, Avena barbata, Avena fatua, Brassica nigra, Bromus hordeaceus, Foeniculum vulgare Samples Used in Description: (n = 11) AA0519, AA0861, AA1141, rap0004, rap0125, rap0134, rap0429m, rap1332m, rap1644m, rap2623, rap2826 Comments: This is the local mesic version of the Cercocarpus betuloides Alliance. Its environmental position is typically on concave slopes adjacent to the more mesic Ceanothus spinosus Alliance stands but typically at higher-slope positions. It represents a more mesic setting than the C. betuloides Association and is significantly more mesic than the C. betuloides-Adenostoma fasciculatum Association. All the local Cercocarpus betuloides Associations in the SAMO study area tend to occur in small stands in intermediate positions between other more widespread alliances such as Ceanothus megacarpus, C. spinosus, or Adenostoma fasciculatum Alliance stands. Further detailed description of the understory of this and other steep mesophytic stands of chaparral would likely reveal more species of shared herbs and grasses such as Melica imperfecta.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany-Greenbark Ceanothus Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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366

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Cercocarpus betuloides-Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica Shrubland Association Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany-Laurel Sumac-California Sagebrush Shrubland Association Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Alliance Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2117 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on moderately steep to very steep northeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 33–743 m. It is characterized by dominance of Cercocarpus betuloides and subdominance to codominance of Malosma laurina in the shrub layer. Melica imperfecta and scattered other native and nonnative species are present in the herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer includes infrequent Quercus agrifolia and Umbellularia californica. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast, Eastern Urban, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 33–743 m, mean 177.5 m Aspect: northeast Slope: range 12–48 degrees, mean 34.1 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat or convex; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: range 3–55%, mean 18.3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–85%, mean 12.4% Bare Ground: range 2–40%, mean 23.1% Parent Material: sedimentary or quaternary Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Cercocarpus betuloides-Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (17–51%, mean 37.3%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0.5–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–19%, mean 6.1%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–3% cover, mean 0.4%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 17–55%, mean cover is 42.8%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Cercocarpus betuloides, Malosma laurina, Heteromeles arbutifolia, and Artemisia californica. Salvia mellifera and Eriogonum cinereum are often present, while Mimulus aurantiacus is occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia and Umbellularia californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Melica imperfecta, Leymus condensatus, Bromus madritensis, Avena fatua, Foeniculum vulgare, Brassica nigra, and Marah macrocarpus.

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Cercocarpus betuloides-Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub CEBE3 MALA6 HEAR5 ARCA11 SAME3 ERCI5 MIAU CESP RHOV SALE3 YUWH ADFA ERFA2 ENCA HASQ2

Cercocarpus betuloides Malosma laurina Heteromeles arbutifolia Artemisia californica Salvia mellifera Eriogonum cinereum Mimulus aurantiacus Ceanothus spinosus Rhus ovata Salvia leucophylla Yucca whipplei Adenostoma fasciculatum Eriogonum fasciculatum Encelia californica Hazardia squarrosa

100 13.9 4.0 26.0 100 6.8 1.0 15.0 93 2.8 0.2 7.5 80 3.6 0.2 13.0 73 2.1 0.2 8.0 60 1.0 0.2 6.0 47 0.7 0.2 2.5 33 1.5 1.0 9.0 33 0.8 0.2 6.0 33 0.4 0.2 2.5 33 0.2 0.2 2.0 27 0.3 0.2 2.0 27 0.1 0.2 1.0 20 0.2 0.2 2.5 20 0.1 0.2 1.0

MEIM LECO12 POACXX BRMA3

Melica imperfecta Leymus condensatus Poaceae Bromus madritensis

47 33 20 20

X X X X

Herb 1.9 1.0 0.9 0.3

0.2 10.0 1.0 8.0 0.2 8.0 0.2 4.0

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 1 of 15 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus madritensis, Avena, Avena fatua, Brassica nigra, Foeniculum vulgare, Senecio mikanioides, Schinus molle, Nerium oleander, Conium maculatum, Hirschfeldia incana, Ailanthus altissima, Centaurea melitensis, Erodium, Euphorbia terracina, Nicotiana glauca, Pennisetum setaceum, Piptatherum miliaceum Samples Used in Description: (n = 15) AA0010cc, AA0185cc, AA0926, rap0163, rap0166, rap0273, rap0919, rap0928, rap1052, rap1116, rap1181m, rap1192m, rap1865m, rap2167m, rap2644 Comments: This is a low elevation, largely coastal association that likely does not range much beyond the SAMO study area and the western transverse ranges. It typically occurs on northerly facing slopes immediately adjacent to coastal scrub alliances such as the Artemisia californica Alliance. These stands are usually well within the coastal summer fog zone. Two phases have been defined, one with relatively more Malosma laurina and the other with relatively more A. californica.

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Phases: Cercocarpus betuloides-Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica (Birch Leaf Mountain MahoganyLaurel Sumac) Phase [2117] Cercocarpus betuloides-Artemisia californica/Melica imperfecta (Birch Leaf Mountain MahoganyCalifornia Sagebrush [Provisional]) Phase [2111] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany-Laurel SumacCalifornia Sagebrush Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Coreopsis gigantea-Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Association Giant Coreopsis-California Sagebrush-Ashy Buckwheat Shrubland Association Coreopsis gigantea Shrubland Alliance Giant Coreopsis Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3345 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on flat to very steep southwest- to northeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 1–407 m. It is characterized by a dominance of Coreopsis gigantea with a co- or subdominance of Artemisia californica and Eriogonum cinereum in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer may have low cover of Leymus condensatus, Melica imperfecta, and scattered nonnative species. The emergent tree layer is typically absent but may include nonnative species. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 1–407 m, mean 51.1 m Aspect: southwest to northeast Slope: range 0–60 degrees, mean 34.4 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating or flat; bottom to middle slope Litter Cover: range 5–15%, mean 10% Small Rock Cover: range 10–50%, mean 28.5% Large Rock Cover: range 0–30%, mean 6% Bare Ground: range 8–50%, mean 32.8% Parent Material: quaternary or igneous Soil Texture: medium loam to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Coreopsis gigantea-Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (14–48%, mean 28.3%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–1 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–30%, mean 8.4%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–2% cover, mean 0.1%) with conifers at 0–15 m tall and hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 23–55%, mean cover is 36.4%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Coreopsis gigantea, Artemisia californica, Rhus integrifolia, and Eriogonum cinereum. Yucca whipplei, Encelia californica, Malosma laurina, and Isomeris arborea are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Eucalyptus sp. and Pinus sp. at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and may include Leymus condensatus, Melica imperfecta, Foeniculum vulgare, Bromus madritensis, Carpobrotus edulis, and Brassica nigra.

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Coreopsis gigantea-Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub COGI ARCA11 RHIN2 ERCI5 YUWH ENCA MALA6 ISAR MIAU HEAR5

Coreopsis gigantea Artemisia californica Rhus integrifolia Eriogonum cinereum Yucca whipplei Encelia californica Malosma laurina Isomeris arborea Mimulus aurantiacus Heteromeles arbutifolia

100 90 86 76 43 43 33 33 24 24

9.0 5.4 3.3 3.2 0.9 0.8 0.9 0.3 0.4 0.4

2.0 21.0 X X 0.2 20.0 X 0.2 10.0 X 0.2 8.0 X 0.2 4.0 0.2 5.0 0.2 7.0 0.2 1.0 0.2 5.0 0.2 3.0

LECO12 MEIM FOVU BRMA3

Leymus condensatus Melica imperfecta Foeniculum vulgare Bromus madritensis

48 29 29 24

0.8 1.0 0.1 0.3

0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2

Herb 8.0 7.0 0.2 3.0

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Erysimum insulare was found in 1 of 21 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3T3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Foeniculum vulgare, Bromus madritensis, Carpobrotus edulis, Brassica nigra, Pennisetum setaceum, Carpobrotus chilensis, Salsola tragus, Nicotiana glauca, Cortaderia, Malva parviflora, Mesembryanthemum crystallinum, Bromus diandrus, Eucalyptus, Medicago polymorpha, Melilotus indicus, Myoporum laetum, Brassica, Cakile maritima, Erodium cicutarium, Hirschfeldia incana, Marrubium vulgare, Oxalis pes-caprae, Raphanus sativus, Sonchus oleraceus Samples Used in Description: (n = 21) AA0869, AA1058, AA1059, AA1062, AA1063, rap0520, rap0639, rap0645, rap0666, rap0903, rap0907, rap0938, rap1045, rap1156, rap1201, rap1273, rap1276, rap2818, rap2887rlv, rap2888rlv, rap2889rlv Comments: This is an association restricted to the immediate coast, usually on steep bluffs or stable slopes within a kilometer of the ocean. The dominant species is a drought-deciduous soft woody shrub, which is very frost sensitive. Coreopsis gigantea is an indicator and may not always be a dominant. Due to the withering nature of C. gigantea in the later summer and fall months, these stands appear to have much higher relative cover of the codominant shrubs. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM

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Giant Coreopsis-California Sagebrush-Ashy Buckwheat Shrubland Association None

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PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Coreopsis gigantea Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. It is likely to occur locally along the immediate coast of adjacent Santa Barbara County and also on Santa Cruz and perhaps other northern Channel Islands. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Coreopsis gigantea-Ericameria ericoides-Encelia californica Shrubland Association Giant Coreopsis-Dune Goldenbush-California Encelia Shrubland Association Coreopsis gigantea Shrubland Alliance Giant Coreopsis Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3342 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep northeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 0–40 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Coreopsis gigantea and Ericameria ericoides in the shrub layer and a variety of psammophytic coastal species in the herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer is absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–40 m, mean 21.3 m Aspect: northeast or flat Slope: range 0–35 degrees, mean 9.5 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat or undulating; lower slope to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 35–60%, mean 47.5% Small Rock Cover: range 0–10%, mean 3.7% Large Rock Cover: range 0–5%, mean 0.6% Bare Ground: range 20–80%, mean 48.4% Parent Material: quaternary Soil Texture: coarse to medium loamy sand Vegetation Description: Stands of Coreopsis gigantea-Ericameria ericoides-Encelia californica Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (2–60%, mean 24.2%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–1 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–2 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent (0–41%, mean 10.6%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are not present. Total vegetation cover is 17–60%, mean cover is 34.9%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Coreopsis gigantea, Encelia californica, and Ericameria ericoides. Opuntia littoralis is often present and Rhus integrifolia is occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is absent. The herbaceous layer is diverse and occasionally includes Croton californicus, Eschscholzia californica, Carpobrotus edulis, and Marah macrocarpus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Coreopsis gigantea-Ericameria ericoides-Encelia californica Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub COGI ENCA ERER11 OPLI3 RHIN2 BAPI ISME5 ERPA8 LOSC2 ARCA11

Coreopsis gigantea Encelia californica Ericameria ericoides Opuntia littoralis Rhus integrifolia Baccharis pilularis Isocoma menziesii Eriogonum parvifolium Lotus scoparius Artemisia californica

94 94 75 62 44 38 31 31 31 25

7.6 3.8 5.7 1.4 2.2 0.2 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.2

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

18.0 X X 12.0 X 21.0 X 6.0 28.0 2.0 6.0 3.0 2.0 2.0

CRCA5 ESCA2 CAED3 PHACE MAMA8 BRDI3 RASA2 AMCH4 GNAPH LEFI11

Croton californicus Eschscholzia californica Carpobrotus edulis Phacelia Marah macrocarpus Bromus diandrus Raphanus sativus Ambrosia chamissonis Gnaphalium Lessingia filaginifolia

62 62 56 50 44 25 25 25 25 25

1.6 0.9 0.6 0.7 0.3 1.0 0.6 0.2 0.1 0.1

0.2 5.0 0.2 5.0 0.2 5.0 0.2 3.0 0.2 2.0 0.2 10.0 0.2 5.0 0.2 2.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Herb

X

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Carpobrotus edulis, Bromus diandrus, Raphanus sativus, Brassica, Erodium moschatum, Medicago polymorpha, Pennisetum setaceum, Anagallis arvensis, Bromus madritensis, Foeniculum vulgare, Brassica nigra, Brassica rapa, Erodium botrys, Erodium cicutarium, Lobularia maritima, Malva parviflora Samples Used in Description: (n = 16) rap0515, rap0637, rap0641, rap0642, rap0643, rap0644, rap0646, rap0689, rap0690, rap0691, rap0692, rap0694, rap1128, rap2753, rap2870rlv, rap2871rlv Comments: This is a rare and local vegetation type known mostly from the Point Dume area and scattered bluffs westward to Point Mugu. The scattered bluffs, however, do not have Ericameria ericoides. Similar stands may exist as far north as San Luis Obispo County at places such as the Nipomo Dunes, although they have not been confirmed elsewhere. Recent removal of Carpobrotus edulis for the Point Dume stands should be monitored to ensure protection from reinvasion and human trampling. Phases: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Giant Coreopsis-Dune Goldenbush-California Encelia Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Sem-natural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Coreopsis gigantea Shrubland Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G2S2

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Dendromecon rigida Shrubland Alliance Bush Poppy Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3350 Local Description Summary: This shrubland alliance occurs on moderately steep to steep northwest- or southeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 0–673 m. It is dominated by Dendromecon rigida in the shrub layer. All Santa Monica Mountains stands so far have a constant low cover of Heteromeles arbutifolia, and Adenostoma fasciculatum is also found in more than 80% of the stands. The emergent tree layer includes occasional Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This alliance is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–673 m, mean 385.2 m Aspect: northwest and southeast Slope: range 12–35 degrees, mean 25 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat to undulating; mid to upper slope Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: range 4–15%, mean 9.5% Large Rock Cover: range 1–2%, mean 1.5% Bare Ground: range 15–20%, mean 17.5% Parent Material: sedimentary or quaternary Soil Texture: moderately fine silty clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of this shrubland alliance form an open to intermittent shrub layer (32–57%, mean 40.2%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–1%, mean 0.2%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–15% cover, mean 3%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 32–58%, mean cover is 42.5%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Dendromecon rigida, Heteromeles arbutifolia, and Adenostoma fasciculatum. Malosma laurina, Rhus ovata, Quercus berberidifolia, Ceanothus spinosus, and Prunus ilicifolia are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and occasionally includes Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and is characterized by Poaceae sp.

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Dendromecon rigida Alliance Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub DERI HEAR5 ADFA MALA6 CESP QUBE5 RHOV PRIL CEME CEOL

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

50

1.8

1.0

8.0 X

Dendromecon rigida Heteromeles arbutifolia Adenostoma fasciculatum Malosma laurina Ceanothus spinosus Quercus berberidifolia Rhus ovata Prunus ilicifolia Ceanothus megacarpus Ceanothus oliganthus

100 21.2 16.0 29.0 X X 100 0.9 0.2 2.0 X 83 0.8 0.2 4.0 X 67 1.2 0.2 6.0 50 2.0 1.0 7.0 50 1.4 0.2 6.0 50 0.5 0.2 2.0 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 33 4.0 8.0 16.0 33 1.2 2.0 5.0

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Eucalyptus Samples Used in Description: (n = 6) AA0334, rap0252, rap0263m, rap2665, rap2761, rap2919 Comments: This is a typically ephemeral, postfire vegetation alliance. It has not been sampled extensively except in this study. It forms short-lived stands in burned chaparral that appear to exist about 10 years or less. The seeds are long lived. Over a period of several years, Dendromecon is replaced by resprouting shrubs of Adenostoma sp., Heteromeles arbutifolia, Malosma laurina, Rhus ovata, and seedlings of other species of longer-lived shrubs such as Ceanothus megacarpus. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Bush Poppy Alliance None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.2. Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland III.A.2.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.2.N.a. Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Dendromecon rigida Shrubland Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. However, it is likely that with widespread sampling throughout its California range, the D. rigida Alliance will be found throughout California from Shasta County to San Diego County. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: Stands with Dendromecon rigida occur in many chaparral types following fire. In Yosemite National Park (Keeler-Wolf et al. 2003), stands with D. rigida were considered an association of the Adenostoma fasciculatum Alliance. It remains to be seen if analogs to the strongly dominated D. rigida stands in the Santa Monica Mountains will be found elsewhere in California. References: Keeler-Wolf et al. 2003

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Encelia californica Shrubland Association California Encelia Shrubland Association Encelia californica Shrubland Alliance California Encelia Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3222 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep southwest- and southeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 2–496 m. It is characterized by strong dominance of Encelia californica in the shrub layer and a scattering of mostly nonnative species in the herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer is usually absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast, Dry Inland, Western Fog Zone, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Eastern Urban, and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 2–496 m, mean 205.8 m Aspect: southwest and southeast Slope: range 0–38 degrees, mean 24.4 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating, flat, or convex; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 10–75%, mean 38.9% Small Rock Cover: range 0–65%, mean 16% Large Rock Cover: range 0–10%, mean 0.9% Bare Ground: range 0–55%, mean 31.4% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine to fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Encelia californica Shrubland form an open to continuous shrub layer (12–69%, mean 34.8%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–31%, mean 4.7%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–12% cover, mean 0.5%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 24–70%, mean cover is 39.8%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by abundant Encelia californica. Artemisia californica and Malosma laurina are usually present, while Salvia mellifera and Yucca whipplei are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and often includes Brassica nigra. Bromus madritensis, Leymus condensatus, and Centaurea melitensis are sometimes present.

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Encelia californica Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ENCA ARCA11 MALA6 SAME3 YUWH SALE3 ERFA2 ERCI5 RHIN2 MAFA MILA6

Encelia californica Artemisia californica Malosma laurina Salvia mellifera Yucca whipplei Salvia leucophylla Eriogonum fasciculatum Eriogonum cinereum Rhus integrifolia Malacothamnus fasciculatus Mirabilis laevis

100 23.8 6.0 50.0 X X 62 0.9 0.2 6.0 60 1.6 0.2 10.0 50 1.2 0.2 13.0 43 0.3 0.2 2.0 38 0.4 0.2 3.0 36 1.7 0.2 14.0 36 0.7 0.2 6.0 33 0.5 0.2 6.0 24 0.4 0.2 8.0 24 0.2 0.2 5.0

BRNI BRMA3 LECO12 CEME2

Brassica nigra Bromus madritensis Leymus condensatus Centaurea melitensis

55 36 26 24

Herb 0.7 0.3 0.7 0.3

0.2 7.5 0.2 4.0 0.2 10.0 0.2 8.0

X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 2 of 42 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Bromus madritensis, Centaurea melitensis, Nicotiana glauca, Bromus diandrus, Hirschfeldia incana, Ricinus communis, Erodium cicutarium, Avena fatua, Pennisetum setaceum, Myoporum laetum, Avena, Melilotus indicus, Euphorbia terracina, Salsola tragus, Foeniculum vulgare, Malva parviflora, Marrubium vulgare, Sonchus oleraceus, Schinus molle, Opuntia ficusindica, Avena barbata, Brassica, Bromus hordeaceus, Cakile maritima, Carduus pycnocephalus, Cortaderia, Lactuca serriola, Lamarckia aurea, Medicago polymorpha, Melilotus officinalis, Piptatherum miliaceum, Senecio vulgaris, Silybum marianum, Vicia villosa Samples Used in Description: (n = 42) AA0372cc, AA0373cc, AA0497, AA0615, AA0976, AA0995, AA1097, AA1111, rap0036, rap0330, rap0334, rap0623, rap0657, rap0915, rap0923, rap0926, rap0934, rap0972, rap0981, rap1047, rap1063, rap1269, rap1420, rap1421m, rap1463, rap1525, rap1596, rap1598, rap1638, rap1745, rap1794, rap1830, rap1837, rap1851, rap1963, rap2046, rap2051, rap2514, rap2755, rap2816, rap2869rlv, rap2905rlv Comments: This is the standard version of the Encelia californica Alliance in the study area. As with other examples of this alliance defined elsewhere, it typically contains a relatively large nonnative herbaceous component with evidence of recent disturbance from fire or clearing. E. californica seems to require disturbance of this type to maintain stands over time. Otherwise, it may succeed to more stable versions of coastal scrub such as associations in the Artemisia californica, Salvia leucophylla, Salvia mellifera, or Eriogonum cinereum Alliances. Two phases

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have been identified, one with essentially pure dominance of E. californica and the other with a mixture of Eriogonum fasciculatum and Encelia californica. Phases: Encelia californica (California Encelia) Phase [3222] Encelia californica-Eriogonum fasciculatum (California Encelia-California Buckwheat) Phase [3224] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Encelia Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Encelia californica Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: Other studies of this alliance (Klein and Evens 2005, Evens and San 2005) have not defined this association. They do describe similar associations but with a mixture of Encelia californica and Artemisia californica. References: Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005

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Encelia californica-Artemisia californica Shrubland Association California Encelia-California Sagebrush Shrubland Association Encelia californica Shrubland Alliance California Encelia Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3227 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to very steep southwest-and southeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 3–423 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Encelia californica and Artemisia californica in the shrub layer and a largely nonnative herbaceous layer characterized by Brassica nigra. The emergent tree layer includes Juglans californica and Sambucus mexicana. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Eastern Urban, Immediate Coast, Dry Inland, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 3–423 m, mean 211 m Aspect: southwest and southeast Slope: range 2–50 degrees, mean 27.1 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); middle to upper slope Litter Cover: range 35–55%, mean 45% Small Rock Cover: range 5–40%, mean 20.7% Large Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 1.9% Bare Ground: range 10–65%, mean 33.5% Parent Material: sedimentary or quaternary Soil Texture: moderately fine to fine silty or sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Encelia californica-Artemisia californica Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (5–47%, mean 28.9%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–1 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (1–25%, mean 10.5%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–3% cover, mean 0.6%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 15–52%, mean cover is 39.6%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Encelia californica and Artemisia californica. Malosma laurina and Salvia mellifera are often present, while Sambucus mexicana and Baccharis pilularis are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Juglans californica and Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and is characterized by Brassica nigra. Other herbs sometimes include Marah macrocarpus, Marrubium vulgare, Bromus diandrus, and Leymus condensatus.

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Encelia californica-Artemisia californica Association Layer Code Tree Overstory JUCA-T Tree Understory SAME5 Shrub ENCA ARCA11 MALA6 SAME3 SAME5 BAPI RHIN2 NIGL HEAR5 ERCI5 ISME5 MIAU Herb BRNI MAMA8 BRDI3 LECO12 MAVU BRMA3 ERODI MEPO3 BROMU

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Juglans californica

21

0.4

1.0

3.0

Sambucus mexicana

21

0.2

0.2

1.0

Encelia californica Artemisia californica Malosma laurina Salvia mellifera Sambucus mexicana Baccharis pilularis Rhus integrifolia Nicotiana glauca Heteromeles arbutifolia Eriogonum cinereum Isocoma menziesii Mimulus aurantiacus

100 11.2 4.0 22.0 X X 100 9.2 0.2 26.0 X X 71 2.0 1.0 5.0 57 2.0 0.2 7.5 50 0.6 0.2 2.5 36 0.9 0.2 10.0 29 0.4 0.2 2.5 29 0.3 0.2 2.0 X 29 0.3 0.2 2.5 21 0.4 0.2 4.0 21 0.1 0.2 1.0 21 0.01 0.2 0.2

Brassica nigra Marah macrocarpus Bromus diandrus Leymus condensatus Marrubium vulgare Bromus madritensis Erodium Medicago polymorpha Bromus

93 50 43 43 43 36 36 29 21

4.6 0.3 2.5 0.4 0.1 0.5 0.2 0.1 0.3

0.2 18.0 X X X 0.2 2.0 0.2 17.0 X 0.2 2.5 0.2 0.2 X 0.2 3.0 X 0.2 1.0 X 0.2 0.2 X 1.0 2.5

Other Noteworthy Species: Stanleya pinnata was found in 1 of 14 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Locally Rare. This species is not listed by CNPs. Global rank is none, and state rank is none (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 3 of 14 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Marrubium vulgare, Bromus madritensis, Erodium, Nicotiana glauca, Medicago polymorpha, Hirschfeldia incana, Centaurea melitensis, Foeniculum vulgare, Melilotus indicus, Myoporum laetum, Euphorbia terracina, Carpobrotus chilensis, Arundo donax, Cakile maritima, Carpobrotus edulis, Galium aparine, Malva parviflora, Pennisetum setaceum, Salsola tragus, Schinus molle, Brassica, Conium maculatum, Erodium cicutarium, Ricinus communis

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Samples Used in Description: (n = 14) AA0149cc, rap0629, rap0668, rap0712, rap0746, rap0762, rap0950, rap0965, rap1034, rap1088, rap1155, rap1171, rap1455, rap1524 Comments: This association is less common than the Encelia californica Association. It is generally only differentiated from the former association by the codominance of A. californica and E. californica. This association tends to reflect more stable conditions with less recent disturbance than the former type. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Encelia-California Sagebrush Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Encelia californica Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is known from the Santa Monica Mountains as well as other parts of south coastal California including western Riverside and San Diego counties. Malanson 1984 also describes this association from southern California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: In western Riverside County and San Diego County, stands are found on gentle to somewhat steep slopes at low elevations (below 1,000 m). The ground typically has a moderate to high amount of rock cover and bare exposed soil. Parent material is often granite, less often sedimentary. Soil texture is usually sandy loam. Vegetation Description: In western Riverside County (Klein and Evens 2005), Artemisia californica is either codominant or subdominant. Other shrubs may intermix at low cover, the most common species being

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Eriogonum fasciculatum, Opuntia parryi, and Lessingia filaginifolia. A variety of native and nonnative forbs and grasses occupies the herb understory. In San Diego County (Evens and San 2005), Encelia californica and Artemisia californica are codominant in the shrub layer. Hirschfeldia incana or Bromus madritensis may dominate the herbaceous layer. Comments: None References: Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005, Malanson 1984

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Encelia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Association California Encelia-Ashy Buckwheat Shrubland Association Encelia californica Shrubland Alliance California Encelia Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3225 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to very steep southeast- and southwestfacing slopes at low elevations between 0–259 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Encelia californica and Eriogonum cinereum in the shrub layer. As with other associations of this alliance, the herbaceous layer tends to have relatively high frequencies of Brassica nigra and other nonnatives. The emergent tree layer is usually absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–259 m, mean 102.9 m Aspect: southeast and southwest Slope: range 15–55 degrees, mean 27.2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating, convex, or flat; lower slope to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 15–35%, mean 27.5% Small Rock Cover: range 0–40%, mean 15.8% Large Rock Cover: range 0–30%, mean 3.9% Bare Ground: range 20–55%, mean 42.7% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy or silty clay loams Vegetation Description: Stands of Encelia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (18–40%, mean 27.1%). Shrubs occur in two different strata, with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (2–15%, mean 6.7%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are infrequently present. Total vegetation cover is 25–43%, mean cover is 33.5%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Encelia californica, Eriogonum cinereum, and Artemisia californica. Malosma laurina, Yucca whipplei, and Salvia leucophylla are often present, while Salvia mellifera and Rhus integrifolia are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and often includes Brassica nigra and Bromus madritensis.

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Encelia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ENCA ERCI5 ARCA11 MALA6 YUWH SALE3 SAME3 RHIN2 OPLI3 ERFA2 HASQ2 MAFA LOSC2

Encelia californica Eriogonum cinereum Artemisia californica Malosma laurina Yucca whipplei Salvia leucophylla Salvia mellifera Rhus integrifolia Opuntia littoralis Eriogonum fasciculatum Hazardia squarrosa Malacothamnus fasciculatus Lotus scoparius

100 100 77 62 62 54 46 46 38 38 38 31 31

9.4 8.3 1.6 1.9 0.6 0.7 1.8 0.8 1.2 0.4 0.3 0.3 0.2

3.0 16.0 X X 3.0 15.0 X 1.0 3.0 X 0.2 7.0 0.2 2.5 0.2 2.5 2.5 7.5 0.2 2.5 0.2 6.0 0.2 2.5 0.2 2.5 0.2 2.5 0.2 2.5

BRNI BRMA3 LECO12 CEME2 BRDI3 NALE2 CHST4 CHAMA15 BRHO2

Brassica nigra Bromus madritensis Leymus condensatus Centaurea melitensis Bromus diandrus Nassella lepida Chorizanthe staticoides Chamaesyce Bromus hordeaceus

69 69 46 38 31 31 23 23 23

1.3 1.0 0.8 0.3 0.8 0.3 0.4 0.1 0.01

0.2 0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2

Herb 5.0 4.0 3.0 2.5 7.5 3.0 2.5 1.0 0.2

X X X X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Bromus madritensis, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus diandrus, Bromus hordeaceus, Avena fatua, Avena, Schinus molle, Pennisetum setaceum, Erodium cicutarium, Melilotus indicus, Arundo donax, Cakile maritima, Hedera helix, Avena barbata, Carpobrotus edulis, Datura stramonium, Erodium, Eucalyptus, Foeniculum vulgare, Nicotiana glauca, Piptatherum miliaceum, Ricinus communis, Salsola tragus Samples Used in Description: (n = 13) AA0230cc, AA0377cc, AA0391cc, rap0055, rap0056, rap0058, rap0962, rap0996, rap1110m, rap1136, rap1466, rap1592, rap2922 Comments: This association is likely endemic to the Santa Monica Mountains and vicinity. It has slightly lower than average vegetation cover and slightly steeper slopes than other types within the Encelia californica Alliance. The codominance of Encelia and Eriogonum cinereum is diagnostic. Phases: None

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COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Encelia-Ashy Buckwheat Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Encelia californica Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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Encelia californica-Malosma laurina-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Association California Encelia-Laurel Sumac-Black Sage Shrubland Association Encelia californica Shrubland Alliance California Encelia Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3221 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to very steep southeast- and southwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 5–457 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Encelia californica, Salvia mellifera, and Malosma laurina in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is diverse and dominated by nonnative grasses and herbs. The emergent tree layer is generally absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Eastern Urban, Dry Inland, Immediate Coast, Western Fog Zone, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 5–457 m, mean 248.8 m Aspect: southeast and southwest Slope: range 1–48 degrees, mean 29.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 15–45%, mean 28.8% Small Rock Cover: range 4–35%, mean 17.8% Large Rock Cover: range 0–8%, mean 2.5% Bare Ground: range 5–50%, mean 30% Parent Material: sedimentary or igneous Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Encelia californica-Malosma laurina-Salvia mellifera Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (5–55%, mean 35.3%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–10 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent (0–40%, mean 3.8%) at 0-1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–3% cover, mean 0.3%) with conifers at 0–10 m tall and hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 29–60%, mean cover is 39.4%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Encelia californica, Salvia mellifera, Malosma laurina, and Yucca whipplei. Artemisia californica is often present, while Eriogonum fasciculatum, Eriogonum cinereum, and Ceanothus megacarpus are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Leymus condensatus, Marah macrocarpus, Bromus madritensis, Pennisetum setaceum, and Medicago polymorpha.

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Encelia californica-Malosma laurina-Salvia mellifera Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ENCA SAME3 MALA6 YUWH ARCA11 ERFA2 ERCI5 CEME RHOV RHIN2 ADFA MAFA HEAR5

Encelia californica Salvia mellifera Malosma laurina Yucca whipplei Artemisia californica Eriogonum fasciculatum Eriogonum cinereum Ceanothus megacarpus Rhus ovata Rhus integrifolia Adenostoma fasciculatum Malacothamnus fasciculatus Heteromeles arbutifolia

100 10.9 5.0 20.0 94 7.5 0.2 22.0 88 8.7 0.2 30.0 75 1.3 0.2 4.0 59 0.8 0.2 3.0 50 1.2 0.2 7.0 41 1.0 0.2 6.0 34 1.6 0.2 12.0 31 0.6 0.2 5.0 31 0.3 0.2 3.0 28 0.6 0.2 7.0 28 0.4 0.2 6.0 28 0.3 0.2 3.0

BRNI LECO12 MAMA8

Brassica nigra Leymus condensatus Marah macrocarpus

47 25 25

X X X X

Herb 0.4 0.4 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2

3.0 4.0 1.0

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 1 of 32 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Bromus madritensis, Pennisetum setaceum, Nicotiana glauca, Medicago polymorpha, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus diandrus, Erodium, Melilotus indicus, Hirschfeldia incana, Carpobrotus edulis, Foeniculum vulgare, Marrubium vulgare, Ricinus communis, Ageratina adenophora, Avena, Avena fatua, Erodium cicutarium, Piptatherum miliaceum, Schinus molle, Vicia villosa Samples Used in Description: (n = 32) AA0133cc, AA0252cc, AA0314cc, AA0580, AA0667, AA0674, AA1016, rap0042, rap0305m, rap0610m, rap0611, rap0613, rap0630, rap0658, rap0749, rap0751, rap0886, rap0979, rap1004, rap1025m, rap1114, rap1182, rap1184, rap1193, rap1196m, rap1279, rap1669m, rap2106, rap2268, rap2635, rap2860rlv, rap2933 Comments: This association is distinctive from others in the Encelia californica Alliance by having a codominance of three shrubs. One of them, Malosma laurina, is an evergreen broadleaf species that contrasts with the other two codominants by being typically both taller and broader. Salvia mellifera and Encelia californica may look similar from a distance, especially during the summer when their leaves are drier and may be mostly absent. Phases: None

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COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Encelia-Laurel Sumac-Black Sage Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Encelia californica Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3?

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This association is apparently endemic to the Santa Monica Mountains area; however, it may occur elsewhere in south coastal California. References: None

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Encelia californica-Rhus integrifolia Shrubland Association California Encelia-Lemonade Berry Shrubland Association Encelia californica Shrubland Alliance California Encelia Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3226 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to abrupt southeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 2–625 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Encelia californica and Rhus integrifolia in the shrub. The herbaceous layer is generally insignificant and composed of nonnative species. The emergent tree layer is usually not present. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone, Immediate Coast, Dry Inland, and Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 2–625 m, mean 148.8 m Aspect: southeast Slope: range 15–75 degrees, mean 37.4 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 5–15%, mean 10% Small Rock Cover: range 10–50%, mean 26.3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–8%, mean 3.3% Bare Ground: range 5–60%, mean 29.6% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Encelia californica-Rhus integrifolia Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (10–51%, mean 32.7%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–11%, mean 2.2%) at 0-1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–3% cover, mean 0.2%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 12–51%, mean cover is 35%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Encelia californica, Rhus integrifolia, and Eriogonum cinereum. Salvia mellifera and Yucca whipplei are frequently included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Schinus molle and Pinus sp. at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Dichelostemma capitatum, Bromus madritensis, Nassella lepida, Avena fatua, and Pennisetum setaceum.

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Encelia californica-Rhus integrifolia Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ENCA RHIN2 ERCI5 SAME3 YUWH ARCA11 MALA6 SALE3 ERFA2 ISAR COGI MAFA RHOV HEAR5 MILA6

Encelia californica Rhus integrifolia Eriogonum cinereum Salvia mellifera Yucca whipplei Artemisia californica Malosma laurina Salvia leucophylla Eriogonum fasciculatum Isomeris arborea Coreopsis gigantea Malacothamnus fasciculatus Rhus ovata Heteromeles arbutifolia Mirabilis laevis

100 8.6 100 7.5 80 3.6 73 4.0 73 1.5 60 0.8 47 0.9 27 0.6 27 0.5 27 0.5 27 0.2 20 0.3 20 0.2 20 0.2 20 0.01

3.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 1.0 0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2

16.0 16.0 12.0 11.0 6.0 4.0 3.0 8.0 4.0 4.0 2.0 4.0 1.0 2.0 0.2

CEME2 NALE2 PESE3 AVFA BRMA3 DICA14

Centaurea melitensis Nassella lepida Pennisetum setaceum Avena fatua Bromus madritensis Dichelostemma capitatum

27 20 20 20 20 20

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

2.0 3.0 2.0 0.2 0.2 0.2

X X X

Herb 0.2 0.3 0.2 0.01 0.01 0.01

X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 15 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Pennisetum setaceum, Avena fatua, Bromus madritensis, Myoporum laetum, Erodium cicutarium, Brassica nigra, Bromus hordeaceus, Nicotiana glauca, Foeniculum vulgare, Bromus diandrus, Hirschfeldia incana, Schinus molle, Sonchus oleraceus Samples Used in Description: (n = 15) AA1007, AA1009, AA1010, rap0659, rap0661, rap0884, rap0932, rap1297, rap1465, rap1602, rap1821, rap1836, rap2113, rap2610, rap2804 Comments: This association differs from the other Encelia californica associations by the codominance of the low sprawling evergreen shrub Rhus integrifolia. This may resemble the E. californica-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Association in structure. It differs from that type by being typically restricted to low elevation and steep slopes, usually relatively close to the ocean. This is a common vegetation type on bluffs facing the immediate coast along Pacific Coast Highway.

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393

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Encelia-Lemonade Berry Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Encelia californica Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This association may also occur elsewhere close to the ocean in southern California (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995). Due to development along the coast, it is likely to be relatively rare with few high-quality examples remaining out of protected areas. References: Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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394

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Association Ashy Buckwheat Shrubland Association Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Alliance Ashy Buckwheat Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3257 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on moderate to abrupt southwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 0–500 m. It is characterized by a dominance of Eriogonum cinereum in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer has no characteristic species. The emergent tree layer is generally absent but can include Quercus agrifolia and Umbellularia californica. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Western Fog Zone, Immediate Coast, and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–500 m, mean 289.5 m Aspect: southwest Slope: range 9–80 degrees, mean 35.6 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating, flat, or convex; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 10–35%, mean 16.7% Small Rock Cover: range 3–46%, mean 23.1% Large Rock Cover: range 0–85%, mean 17.1% Bare Ground: range 0–65%, mean 27.8% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (3–37%, mean 18.5%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–33%, mean 10.7%) at 0–2 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–2% cover, mean 0.1%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 6–47%, mean cover is 29.2%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Eriogonum cinereum. Artemisia californica is usually present. Yucca whipplei, Salvia mellifera, Malosma laurina, and Lotus scoparius are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Leymus condensatus, Bromus diandrus, and Hirschfeldia incana.

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395

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Eriogonum cinereum Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ERCI5 ARCA11 SAME3 YUWH LOSC2 MALA6 SALE3 ENCA BRCA3 HEAR5 RHOV

Eriogonum cinereum Artemisia californica Salvia mellifera Yucca whipplei Lotus scoparius Malosma laurina Salvia leucophylla Encelia californica Brickellia californica Heteromeles arbutifolia Rhus ovata

98 71 38 38 35 35 31 23 21 21 21

10.9 1.5 0.4 0.2 1.0 0.7 0.6 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.2

0.2 25.0 0.2 8.0 0.2 5.0 0.2 2.5 0.2 24.0 0.2 6.0 0.2 10.0 0.2 4.0 0.2 2.5 0.2 2.5 0.2 3.0

BRNI CEME2 BRMA3 LECO12 HIIN3 BRDI3

Brassica nigra Centaurea melitensis Bromus madritensis Leymus condensatus Hirschfeldia incana Bromus diandrus

50 38 31 25 21 21

1.6 1.8 1.3 0.8 0.7 0.7

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

X

Herb 12.0 15.0 20.0 12.0 15.0 8.0

X X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Leptodactylon californicum was found in 1 of 48 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G5T3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus diandrus, Avena fatua, Foeniculum vulgare, Nicotiana glauca, Avena, Piptatherum miliaceum, Avena barbata, Bromus hordeaceus, Eragrostis cilianensis, Cortaderia, Carpobrotus edulis, Centranthus ruber, Erodium cicutarium, Medicago polymorpha, Pennisetum setaceum, Ricinus communis, Salsola tragus, Silybum marianum Samples Used in Description: (n = 48) AA0016cc, AA0276cc, AA0504, AA0624, AA0743cc, AA0750cc, AA0858, AA0954, AA1159, AA1161, AA1175, rap0073, rap0093, rap0137, rap0161, rap0389, rap0390, rap0420, rap0463, rap0499, rap1249, rap1250, rap1302, rap1323, rap1367, rap1389, rap1391m, rap1711, rap1722, rap1741, rap1800, rap1804, rap1813, rap1814, rap1819, rap1872, rap1877, rap1927m, rap1947, rap1995, rap1996, rap2000m, rap2127, rap2128, rap2200, rap2586, rap2713, rap2722 Comments: This is an endemic alliance and association to the Ventura region of California and probably has most of its area represented within the SAMO study area. It is characteristic of steep usually southerly facing slopes below 600 m elevation and is often found on rocky or eroded cliffs. An early seral (postfire) phase has been identified with a higher cover of Malacothamnus fasciculatus and Leymus condensatus.

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396

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: Eriogonum cinereum (Ashy Buckwheat/Annual Grass-Herb) Phase [3257] Eriogonum cinereum-Malacothamnus fasciculatus/Leymus condensatus (Ashy Buckwheat-Bush Mallow/Giant Wild Rye) Phase [3259] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Ashy Buckwheat Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

C1188-1/c

397

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland Association California Buckwheat Shrubland Association Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance California Buckwheat Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3241 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to very steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 5–563 m. It is characterized by the dominance of Eriogonum fasciculatum in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is largely a sparse mix of nonnative species. The emergent tree layer is largely absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Eastern Urban Simi Hills Inland, and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 5–563 m, mean 389.5 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–55 degrees, mean 24.2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating, flat, or convex; lower slope to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 10–40%, mean 21.7% Small Rock Cover: range 10–65%, mean 33.4% Large Rock Cover: range 0–48%, mean 4.7% Bare Ground: range 8–70%, mean 32.2% Parent Material: sedimentary or igneous Soil Texture: coarse loamy sand to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (5–48%, mean 23.3%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–1 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–25%, mean 6%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–3% cover, mean 0.1%) with hardwoods at 0–2 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 6–49%, mean cover is 29.3%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Eriogonum fasciculatum. Lotus scoparius, Artemisia californica, Malosma laurina, and infrequently includes Quercus agrifolia. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Bromus madritensis, Bromus diandrus, Brassica nigra, and Centaurea melitensis.

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398

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Eriogonum fasciculatum Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ERFA2 LOSC2 ARCA11 MALA6 SAME3 HEAR5 CEME HASQ2 MIAU

Eriogonum fasciculatum Lotus scoparius Artemisia californica Malosma laurina Salvia mellifera Heteromeles arbutifolia Ceanothus megacarpus Hazardia squarrosa Mimulus aurantiacus

100 14.6 3.0 46.0 58 2.6 0.2 10.0 48 1.2 0.2 7.0 45 1.2 0.2 8.0 45 0.8 0.2 7.5 29 0.2 0.2 2.5 26 0.3 0.2 3.0 26 0.3 0.2 3.0 23 0.6 0.2 11.0

BRMA3 BRDI3 BRNI CEME2 AVENA

Bromus madritensis Bromus diandrus Brassica nigra Centaurea melitensis Avena

45 42 39 39 23

X

Herb 0.4 1.2 0.7 0.7 0.5

0.2 4.0 0.2 16.0 0.2 7.0 0.2 7.0 0.2 6.0

X X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Leptodactylon californicum was found in 1 of 31 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G5T3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Stanleya pinnata was found in 1 of 31 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Locally Rare. This species is not listed by CNPs. Global rank is none, and state rank is none (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus madritensis, Bromus diandrus, Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Avena, Hirschfeldia incana, Nicotiana glauca, Erodium cicutarium, Spartium junceum, Melilotus indicus, Piptatherum miliaceum, Erodium botrys, Avena fatua, Pennisetum setaceum, Foeniculum vulgare, Cistus, Ricinus communis, Medicago polymorpha, Rosmarinus officinalis, Acacia redolens, Avena barbata, Bromus hordeaceus, Cortaderia, Melilotus officinalis, Mesembryanthemum crystallinum Samples Used in Description: (n = 31) AA0233cc, AA0274cc, AA0653, AA0798, AA0969, AA1114, AA1126, rap0225m, rap0304, rap0357, rap0391, rap0731, rap0757, rap1275, rap1283, rap1447m, rap1457, rap1458, rap1849, rap1886, rap2131, rap2325, rap2359, rap2362, rap2407, rap2440, rap2469rlv, rap2476, rap2642rlv, rap2657, rap2864rlv Comments: This is a common disturbance-related association. It is often found on road cuts and other nonnatural clearings such as fuel breaks and abandoned house pads. It also may occur after fire in chaparral and some drier coastal scrubs. The most common postfire phase is the Eriogonum fasciculatum-Lotus scoparius phase.

C1188-1/c

399

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: Eriogonum fasciculatum (California Buckwheat) Phase [3241] Eriogonum fasciculatum-Lotus scoparius (California Buckwheat-Deerweed) Phase [3249] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Buckwheat Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S5

Global Description Distribution: This association is known from the Santa Monica Mountains as well as San Diego and western Riverside counties. It probably is widespread throughout much of central and south coastal California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: The Eriogonum fasciculatum Association usually occurs on alluvial/depositional, lower to upper slopes that are undulating or convex. Parent material is usually granitic or sedimentary. Many stands denote recent disturbance from invasive annual species, grazing, erosion, foot traffic, and so forth. Vegetation Description: In the Eriogonum fasciculatum Association, E. fasciculatum is consistently present at low to high cover. A wide variety of chaparral, coastal sage, and disturbance shrub species (e.g., Artemisia californica, Lotus scoparius, Lessingia filaginifolia, Rhus ovata, Salvia apiana, Adenostoma fasciculatum) may be present at low cover. Diverse annual herbs compose the herb understory, the most common being natives Cryptantha spp. and nonnatives such as Hirschfeldia incana, Erodium spp., Bromus spp., and Avena spp. Comments: The colonization abilities of Eriogonum fasciculatum are prodigious in southern California; however, they may be helped in some areas by artificial seeding programs along road cuts and so forth.

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400

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

References: Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

C1188-1/c

401

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association California Buckwheat-Black Sage-Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance California Buckwheat Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3248 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to very steep southwest- and southeastfacing slopes at low elevations between 0–681 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Eriogonum fasciculatum, Salvia mellifera, and Malosma laurina in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is generally insignificant and composed of scattered nonnative species. The emergent tree layer includes, on occasion, Quercus agrifolia and Q. lobata. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Eastern Urban, Simi Hills Inland, Dry Inland, Immediate Coast, and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–681 m, mean 408.9 m Aspect: southwest and southeast Slope: range 15–50 degrees, mean 31.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating, convex, or flat; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 2–40%, mean 24.6% Small Rock Cover: range 2–50%, mean 23.2% Large Rock Cover: range 0–50%, mean 5.9% Bare Ground: range 10–80%, mean 36.4% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (11–48%, mean 31%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–25%, mean 3.8%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–3% cover, mean 0.2%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 15–50%, mean cover is 34.9%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Eriogonum fasciculatum, Salvia mellifera, Malosma laurina, and Adenostoma fasciculatum. Yucca whipplei and Rhus ovata are often included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia and Quercus lobata at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Centaurea melitensis. Bromus madritensis, Cuscuta californica, Brassica nigra, and Hirschfeldia incana may be present.

C1188-1/c

402

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ERFA2 SAME3 MALA6 ADFA YUWH RHOV CEME ARCA11 HEAR5 LOSC2

Eriogonum fasciculatum Salvia mellifera Malosma laurina Adenostoma fasciculatum Yucca whipplei Rhus ovata Ceanothus megacarpus Artemisia californica Heteromeles arbutifolia Lotus scoparius

100 100 98 84 73 57 45 39 33 24

9.4 8.5 4.8 1.7 0.9 0.9 1.3 0.8 0.8 0.3

2.0 22.0 0.2 17.0 0.2 12.0 0.2 7.5 0.2 4.0 0.2 5.0 0.2 7.0 0.2 7.5 0.2 7.0 0.2 4.0

CEME2 AVENA

Centaurea melitensis Avena

29 22

0.5 0.4

0.2 0.2

X X X X

Herb 5.0 7.0

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Avena, Bromus madritensis, Brassica nigra, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus diandrus, Avena barbata, Bromus hordeaceus, Brassica, Erodium cicutarium, Melilotus indicus, Pennisetum setaceum, Stellaria media, Avena fatua, Centaurea solstitialis, Cirsium vulgare, Erodium, Marrubium vulgare, Nicotiana glauca, Silybum marianum Samples Used in Description: (n = 49) AA0032cc, AA0066cc, AA0247cc, AA0266cc, AA0292cc, AA0298cc, AA0309cc, AA0327cc, AA0401, AA0474cc, AA0683, AA0727, AA0814, AA0850, AA0868, AA0873, AA0966, AA1034, AA1080, AA1105, AA1118, AA1146, AA1167, AA1186, AA1209, rap0124, rap0335, rap0415, rap0745, rap0826, rap0829, rap0891, rap0947, rap1208, rap1226, rap1443, rap1574, rap1717, rap1921, rap2040, rap2042, rap2230, rap2261, rap2357, rap2428, rap2430, rap2439, rap2743, rap2758 Comments: This association is the analog to the Encelia californica-Salvia mellifera-Malosma laurina Association of the E. californica Alliance. It is generally found at somewhat higher elevations than that association and may be more likely to occur in stands adjacent to chaparral alliance stands such as Ceanothus megacarpus and Adenostoma fasciculatum than its Encelia californica Alliance analog. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP

C1188-1/c

California Buckwheat-Black Sage-Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland

403

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This association is not known outside of the study area; however, it may occur elsewhere in coastal southern California below 1,000 m in elevation. References: None

C1188-1/c

404

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia apiana Shrubland Alliance California Buckwheat-White Sage Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3410 Local Description Summary: This shrubland alliance occurs on somewhat steep to very steep southeast- or southwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 202–262 m. It is codominated by Salvia apiana and Eriogonum fasciculatum in the shrub layer and has a variety of native and nonnative herbs, all at low cover in the herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer includes Quercus agrifolia in 80% of the sampled stands. Distribution: This alliance is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 202–262 m, mean 232.4 m Aspect: southeast and southwest Slope: range 15–50 degrees, mean 34 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating; lower to middle slope Litter Cover: 15% Small Rock Cover: range 5–45%, mean 25% Large Rock Cover: range 1–2%, mean 1.5% Bare Ground: range 20–45%, mean 32.5% Parent Material: sedimentary, quaternary Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of this shrubland alliance form an open shrub layer (10–29%, mean 18.8%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (3–30%, mean 13%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–3% cover, mean 1%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 23–45%, mean cover is 32.6%. In this alliance, the shrub layer is characterized by Salvia apiana and Eriogonum fasciculatum. Yucca whipplei is also characteristic but at very low cover values. Artemisia californica is occasionally included in this layer as are Malosma laurina, Brickellia californica, Eriogonum cinereum, Salvia leucophylla, and Adenostoma fasciculatum. The tree layer is emergent and open and occasionally includes Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and is characterized by low cover of Avena sp. Other herbs sometimes include Centaurea melitensis, Brassica nigra, Hirschfeldia incana, and Dudleya pulverulenta.

C1188-1/c

405

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia apiana Alliance Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub SAAP2 ERFA2 YUWH ARCA11 ERCI5 SALE3 ADFA BRCA3 MALA6 CEBE3 MAFA RHIL MILA6 QUBE5 RHOV SAME5 Herb AVENA CEME2 BRNI HIIN3 DUPU SIMA3 BROMU BRMA3 VULPI BRDI3 CUCA LAPL MEIM UNBG CAEX14 CHGL ERIN8 GALIU LUPIN STEPH Cryptogam SEBI

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

80

1.0

0.2

3.0 X X

Salvia apiana Eriogonum fasciculatum Yucca whipplei Artemisia californica Eriogonum cinereum Salvia leucophylla Adenostoma fasciculatum Brickellia californica Malosma laurina Cercocarpus betuloides Malacothamnus fasciculatus Rhamnus ilicifolia Mirabilis laevis Quercus berberidifolia Rhus ovata Sambucus mexicana

100 100 100 60 40 40 40 40 40 20 20 20 20 20 20 20

9.2 6.2 0.9 1.0 0.4 0.2 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.4 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

3.0 16.0 X X 0.2 14.0 X X 0.2 2.0 X 0.2 4.0 0.2 2.0 0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 2.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Avena Centaurea melitensis Brassica nigra Hirschfeldia incana Dudleya pulverulenta Silybum marianum Bromus Bromus madritensis Vulpia Bromus diandrus Cuscuta californica Layia platyglossa Melica imperfecta Unknown bunch grass Castilleja exserta Chaenactis glabriuscula Erysimum insulare Galium Lupinus Stephanomeria

80 60 60 40 40 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20

2.2 4.6 1.8 1.2 0.1 0.8 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

0.2 8.0 X X 1.0 14.0 X X 1.0 4.0 X 0.2 6.0 X 0.2 0.2 4.0 4.0 X 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 X 2.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 X 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Selaginella bigelovii

20

0.0

0.2

0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: Erysimum insulare was found in 1 of 5 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3T3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and C1188-1/c

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state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Avena, Centaurea melitensis, Brassica nigra, Hirschfeldia incana, Silybum marianum, Bromus madritensis, Bromus diandrus Samples Used in Description: (n = 5) AA1135, rap2305, rap2432, rap2436, rap2910 Comments: This alliance is characteristic of the inland portions of the Los Angeles Basin and San Diego County. It is less frequent in the Coastal Fog Zone of southern California; hence, it is a relative rarity locally. The local stands appear to be restricted to the inland side of the crest of the Santa Monica Mountains in relatively xeric settings. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Buckwheat-White Sage Shrubland Alliance None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic subdesert shrubland Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia apiana Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S5

Global Description Distribution: This alliance occurs within the portions of southern California and Baja California, Mexico, bounded by the San Bernardino Mountains to the north and the Peninsular Ranges to the east. Nations: United States, Mexico States or Provinces: CA, Baja California Norte Environmental Description: Stands of this shrubland alliance of southern California and Baja California occur on south-facing slopes from 500 to 1,500 m elevation. Mean annual precipitation ranges from 35 cm in the northern end of the range (Los Angeles Basin) to 20 cm in the southern (Baja California) portion.

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The most favorable habitat is uplands with shallow soils and boulders. Stands intergrade with other chaparral alliances and with other "coastal sage scrub" vegetation types. Vegetation Description: This mid elevation variety of southern California sage scrub is characterized by codominance of Salvia apiana and Eriogonum fasciculatum, each attaining about 20% cover. Other components of this sclerophyllous evergreen alliance often include Adenostoma fasciculatum, Yucca whipplei, Ceanothus leucodermis, Ceanothus greggii, Lotus scoparius, and Quercus berberidifolia. Emergent individuals of Quercus agrifolia may be present. The herbaceous layer is variable and may be composed of graminoid species. Comments: This alliance is known to be very common in the western granitic foothills (subsection M262Bn) of western Riverside County (Klein and Evens 2005) and San Diego County (Evens and San 2005). References: Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005, Reid et al. 1999, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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Hazardia squarrosa/Nassella pulchra-Hemizonia fasciculata Shrubland Association Sawtooth Goldenbush/Purple Needlegrass-Clustered Tar Plant Shrubland Association Hazardia squarrosa Shrubland Alliance Sawtooth Goldenbush Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3263 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to somewhat steep northeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 6–486 m. It is characterized by the dominance of Hazardia squarrosa in the shrub layer and Nassella pulchra and Hemizonia fasciculata in the herbaceous layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Dry Inland, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 6–486 m, mean 225 m Aspect: northeast Slope: range 5–25 degrees, mean 14.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat or undulating; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 20–85%, mean 39.2% Small Rock Cover: range 0–10%, mean 4% Large Rock Cover: range 0–2%, mean 0.4% Bare Ground: range 6–55%, mean 24.8% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine to fine clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Hazardia squarrosa/Nassella pulchra-Hemizonia fasciculata Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (7–48%, mean 22.2%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–1 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–2 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent 9–37%, mean 22.5%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are not present. Total vegetation cover is 30–72%, mean cover is 44.4%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Hazardia squarrosa and Salvia leucophylla. Artemisia californica is frequently included in this layer. Other shrubs sometimes include Baccharis pilularis, Eriogonum cinereum, Yucca whipplei, and Eriophyllum confertiflorum. The tree layer is absent. The herbaceous layer is simple and is characterized by Hemizonia fasciculata with Nassella pulchra often present. Other herbs sometimes include Centaurea melitensis, Sisyrinchium bellum, Brassica nigra, and Bromus madritensis.

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Hazardia squarrosa/Nassella pulchra-Hemizonia fasciculata Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub HASQ2 SALE3 ARCA11 BAPI ERCO25 ERCI5 YUWH

Hazardia squarrosa Salvia leucophylla Artemisia californica Baccharis pilularis Eriophyllum confertiflorum Eriogonum cinereum Yucca whipplei

100 13.4 3.0 29.0 X X 82 1.9 0.2 7.0 X 64 1.2 0.2 3.0 36 0.9 1.0 4.0 27 0.7 0.2 6.0 27 0.3 0.2 2.5 27 0.1 0.2 1.0

HEFA NAPU4 CEME2 SIBE BRNI BRMA3 DICA14 BRHO2

Hemizonia fasciculata Nassella pulchra Centaurea melitensis Sisyrinchium bellum Brassica nigra Bromus madritensis Dichelostemma capitatum Bromus hordeaceus

82 73 36 36 36 36 27 27

Herb 4.9 9.3 1.1 0.4 0.2 0.1 0.7 0.4

1.0 23.0 X 0.2 25.0 X 0.2 6.0 X 0.2 3.0 0.2 1.0 X 0.2 1.0 X 0.2 4.0 0.2 2.5 X

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 2 of 11 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Dichondra occidentalis was found in 1 of 11 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-1. Global rank is G4?, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Brassica nigra, Bromus madritensis, Bromus hordeaceus, Erodium cicutarium, Avena, Anagallis arvensis, Lactuca serriola, Bromus diandrus, Hirschfeldia incana, Stellaria media, Avena fatua, Erodium, Melilotus indicus, Nicotiana glauca, Phalaris aquatica, Sonchus Samples Used in Description: (n = 11) AA0122cc, AA1164, rap0987, rap0994, rap2162, rap2196m, rap2309, rap2633, rap2634, rap2805, rap2872rlv Comments: This association is indicative of a transitional state between herb-dominated grassland where presumably Nassella pulchra and Hemizonia fasciculata were among the principal species and various shrublands in the Artemisia californica and Salvia leucophylla alliances. Hazardia squarrosa is a common, early seral species that does well following mechanical disturbance or fire. The stability of these stands is something that should be investigated. They tend to have a higher native herbaceous component than many other shrublands in the study area. In some cases, these stands may be transitioning into denser coastal scrub; however, the stands that are in heavy clay appear to be stable.

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Phases: Hazardia squarrosa/Nassella pulchra-Hemizonia fasciculata (Sawtooth Goldenbush/Purple Needlegrass-Clustered Tar Plant) Phase [3263] COMMON NAME PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Sawtooth Goldenbush/Purple NeedlegrassClustered Tar Plant Shrubland Association Shrubland Evergreen Shrubland Microphyllous evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Lowland microphyllous evergreen shrubland Hazardia squarrosa Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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Hazardia squarrosa-Artemisia californica Shrubland Association Sawtooth Goldenbush-California Sagebrush Shrubland Association Hazardia squarrosa Shrubland Alliance Sawtooth Goldenbush Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3262 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on moderately steep to steep northwest- and northeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 30–542 m. It is characterized by a dominance of Hazardia squarrosa and a subdominance of Artemisia californica in the shrub layer. In the herbaceous layer, there is a mixture of several native and nonnative species, none of which are particularly characteristic. The emergent tree layer is usually absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland, Western Fog Zone, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 30–542 m, mean 335.5 m Aspect: northwest and northeast Slope: range 8–35 degrees, mean 23.2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat, convex, or undulating; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 10–65%, mean 28.8% Small Rock Cover: range 0–35%, mean 10.6% Large Rock Cover: range 0–4%, mean 0.4% Bare Ground: range 3–79%, mean 44.5% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: fine clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Hazardia squarrosa-Artemisia californica Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (6–50%, mean 27.8%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–1 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent (1–42%, mean 13.8%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–7% cover, mean 0.7%) with conifers at 0–1 m tall and hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 23–60%, mean cover is 42.2%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Hazardia squarrosa. Artemisia californica and Salvia leucophylla are frequently included in this layer. Other shrubs sometimes include Baccharis pilularis, Mimulus aurantiacus, and Eriogonum cinereum. The tree layer is emergent and open and infrequently includes Quercus lobata and Juglans californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and often includes Leymus condensatus and Brassica nigra. Other herbs sometimes include Avena fatua, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus diandrus, Centaurea melitensis, and Bromus hordeaceus.

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Hazardia squarrosa-Artemisia californica Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub HASQ2 ARCA11 SALE3 BAPI MIAU ERCI5

Hazardia squarrosa Artemisia californica Salvia leucophylla Baccharis pilularis Mimulus aurantiacus Eriogonum cinereum

100 18.8 2.5 35.0 X X 72 3.5 0.2 20.0 66 0.9 0.2 6.0 31 0.5 0.2 6.0 21 0.9 0.2 10.0 21 0.5 0.2 5.0

LECO12 BRNI AVFA HIIN3 BRDI3 CEME2 AMME BRHO2 LEFI11 HEFA AVENA

Leymus condensatus Brassica nigra Avena fatua Hirschfeldia incana Bromus diandrus Centaurea melitensis Amsinckia menziesii Bromus hordeaceus Lessingia filaginifolia Hemizonia fasciculata Avena

52 48 34 34 31 31 24 24 24 24 21

Herb 1.0 1.1 1.3 0.6 0.8 0.7 0.7 0.6 0.3 0.3 1.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2

10.0 6.0 15.0 4.0 8.0 11.0 14.0 4.0 4.0 4.0 15.0

X X X X X X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 4 of 29 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 4 of 29 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Avena fatua, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus diandrus, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus hordeaceus, Avena, Lolium, Lactuca serriola, Bromus madritensis, Erodium cicutarium, Cirsium vulgare, Galium aparine, Melilotus indicus, Sonchus oleraceus, Avena barbata, Foeniculum vulgare, Acacia redolens, Phalaris aquatica, Anagallis arvensis, Centaurea solstitialis, Euphorbia terracina, Medicago polymorpha, Silybum marianum Samples Used in Description: (n = 29) AA0118cc, AA0257cc, AA0323cc, AA0988, rap0061, rap0105, rap0510, rap1259, rap1394, rap1441, rap1504, rap1846, rap1850, rap1874, rap1882, rap1883, rap1884, rap1942, rap1944, rap1946, rap2017, rap2235, rap2236, rap2310, rap2797, rap2809, rap2837, rap2838, rap2874rlv Comments: In contrast with the previous association of the Hazardia squarrosa Alliance, this type does not usually contain high cover of native perennial bunch grasses. It tends to be "weedier" with a higher percentage of nonnative species and higher cover of other shrubs such as Artemisia californica and Salvia leucophylla. However, in some cases, Artemisia cover will be rather low,

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and the stand will be dominated by only Hazardia and nonnative herbs. These characteristics suggest either a stronger transition toward longer-persisting shrublands of the Artemisia californica Alliance or a successional stage developing from a more heavily disturbed annual grassland. These two trends are reflected in the two phases mentioned below. Phases: Hazardia squarrosa/Annual Grass-Herb (Sawtooth Goldenbush/Annual Grass-Herb) Phase [3261] Hazardia squarrosa-Artemisia californica/Leymus condensatus (Sawtooth Goldenbush–California Sagebrush/Giant Wild Rye) Phase [3262] COMMON NAME PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Sawtooth Goldenbus-California Sagebrush Shrubland Association Shrubland Evergreen Shrubland Microphyllous evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Lowland microphyllous evergreen shrubland Hazardia squarrosa Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This association is not known beyond the SAMO study area but could occur up and down the southern California coastline. References: None

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Heteromeles arbutifolia-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association Toyon-Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association Heteromeles arbutifolia Shrubland Alliance Toyon Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2138 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to very steep northeast- and northwestfacing slopes at low elevations between 50–584 m. It is characterized by a dominance of Heteromeles arbutifolia with a subdominance of Malosma laurina and several other species of lower average cover in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is not well characterized. The emergent tree layer occasionally includes both Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Eastern Urban, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Immediate Coast, Dry Inland, Western Fog Zone, and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 50–584 m, mean 298.5 m Aspect: northeast and northwest Slope: range 15–55 degrees, mean 31.8 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); lower to upper Litter Cover: range 25–65%, mean 41.9% Small Rock Cover: range 0–35%, mean 13.7% Large Rock Cover: range 0–10%, mean 1.9% Bare Ground: range 10–53%, mean 31% Parent Material: sedimentary or igneous Soil Texture: medium loam to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Heteromeles arbutifolia-Malosma laurina Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (14–63%, mean 42.2%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0.5–10 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–26%, mean 4.7%) at 0–2 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–42% cover, mean 3.7%) with conifers at 0–20 m tall and hardwoods at 0–15 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 30–65%, mean cover is 50%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Heteromeles arbutifolia and Malosma laurina. Rhus ovata, Ceanothus spinosus, Cercocarpus betuloides, and Sambucus mexicana are often included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and occasionally includes Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Brassica nigra, Leymus condensatus, Marah macrocarpus, and Marrubium vulgare.

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Heteromeles arbutifolia-Malosma laurina Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T JUCA-T Shrub HEAR5 MALA6 RHOV CEBE3 CESP SAME5 MIAU SAME3 ARCA11 CEME ADFA RHIN2 QUBE5 Herb BRNI LECO12 POACXX

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Juglans californica

49 20

1.9 0.3

Heteromeles arbutifolia Malosma laurina Rhus ovata Cercocarpus betuloides Ceanothus spinosus Sambucus mexicana Mimulus aurantiacus Salvia mellifera Artemisia californica Ceanothus megacarpus Adenostoma fasciculatum Rhus integrifolia Quercus berberidifolia

100 16.9 2.0 63.0 82 5.0 0.2 25.0 55 2.5 0.2 19.0 53 2.5 0.2 15.0 53 1.7 0.2 14.0 51 0.9 0.2 6.0 47 1.8 0.2 13.0 44 1.9 0.2 14.0 44 1.6 0.2 15.0 38 0.8 0.2 7.0 33 0.8 0.2 7.0 31 1.2 0.2 12.0 29 0.5 0.2 4.0

Brassica nigra Leymus condensatus Poaceae

25 22 20

0.4 0.6 1.6

0.2 10.0 0.2 4.0

0.2 6.0 0.2 7.5 0.2 25.0

X X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 15 of 55 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Nicotiana glauca, Bromus madritensis, Marrubium vulgare, Bromus diandrus, Ricinus communis, Cortaderia, Erodium, Centaurea melitensis, Galium aparine, Foeniculum vulgare, Hirschfeldia incana, Eucalyptus, Avena fatua, Ageratina adenophora, Schinus molle, Spartium junceum, Arundo donax, Cotoneaster, Erodium cicutarium, Lantana montevidensis, Malva parviflora, Melilotus indicus, Nerium oleander, Olea europaea, Stellaria media Samples Used in Description: (n = 55) AA0026cc, AA0073cc, AA0157cc, AA0160cc, AA0190cc, AA0308cc, AA0455cc, AA0479cc, AA0512, AA0807, AA0933, AA0971, AA1031, AA1147, AA1172, rap0607, rap0614, rap0622, rap0631, rap0697, rap0698, rap0699, rap0720, rap0721m, rap0723, rap0727m, rap0750m, rap0761, rap0801m, rap0802, rap0856m, rap0897m, rap0911, rap0957, rap1038, rap1173m, rap1286, rap1355m, rap1356m, rap1359, rap1721m, rap1833, rap1988, rap2023, rap2238m, rap2453, rap2454, rap2493, rap2494, rap2571, rap2579, rap2621, rap2654, rap2714, rap2770 Comments: This is a heterogeneous, generally mesic chaparral association dominated by toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia). Its heterogeneity is indicated by the distinguishing of five phases (see below). All of these phases tend to occur on northerly facing steep slopes and share a number of species. The differences between them appear to be mostly related to site history (largely time since last fire C1188-1/c

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and frequency of fires) and proximity to different adjacent alliances, which may contribute to the higher or lower cover of associated species. In many cases, these stands were seen on small fragments of open space in highly developed areas where fires are rare but human disturbance is high. Phases: Heteromeles arbutifolia (Toyon-Coast Live Oak) Phase [2137] Heteromeles arbutifolia-Salvia mellifera (Toyon-Black Sage Sumac) Phase [2133] Heteromeles arbutifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides (Toyon-Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany) Phase [2136] Heteromeles arbutifolia-Malosma laurina (Toyon-Laurel Sumac) Phase [2138] Heteromeles arbutifolia-Artemisia californica-Mimulus aurantiacus (Toyon-California SagebrushBush Monkey Flower) Phase [2135] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Toyon-Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Heteromeles arbutifolia Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. It is likely to occur throughout much of cismontane central and southern California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: Two other associations of the Heteromeles arbutifolia Alliance have been described from western Riverside County (Klein and Evens 2005). They are the Heteromeles arbutifolia-Artemisia

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californica Association, where Artemisia californica codominates with Heteromeles arbutifolia in the shrub overstory, and the Heteromeles arbutifolia-Quercus berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides-Fraxinus dipetala Association, where Quercus berberidifolia, Fraxinus dipetala, and Cercocarpus betuloides are characteristically present as codominant or subdominant shrubs. Borchert et al. 2004 describe a Heteromeles arbutifolia-Prunus ilicifolia Alliance from the Los Padres National Forest of southern and central coastal California. It has similarities with this association but has much higher average cover of Prunus ilicifolia. References: Borchert et al. 2004, Klein and Evens 2005

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Lepidospartum squamatum Shrubland Alliance Scale Broom Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2220 Local Description Summary: One example of this shrubland alliance occurs on a gentle slope at 311 m elevation. It is dominated by Lepidospartum squamatum in the shrub layer and has a variety of native and nonnative species at low cover in the herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer includes Platanus racemosa. Distribution: This alliance is sampled in the Simi Hills Inland region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: 311 m Aspect: flat Slope: 2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat; bottom slope Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: 30% Large Rock Cover: 10% Bare Ground: 40% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: coarse loamy sand Vegetation Description: One stand of this shrubland alliance forms an open shrub layer (18%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–0.5 m tall and tall shrubs at 0.5–1 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (5%) at 0.1–0.5 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (< 1%) with hardwoods at 1–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 23%. In this alliance, the shrub layer is characterized by Lepidospartum squamatum. Eriogonum fasciculatum and Baccharis salicifolia are also included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and includes Platanus racemosa at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple, and the nonnative Hirschfeldia incana is the most abundant. Other herbs include Centaurea melitensis and Artemisia douglasiana.

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Lepidospartum squamatum Alliance Layer Code Tree Overstory PLRA Shrub LESQ ERFA2 BASA4 YUWH Herb HIIN3 UNGR ARDO3 CEME2 CLARK CRYPT

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Platanus racemosa

100

0.2

0.2

0.2 X X

Lepidospartum squamatum Eriogonum fasciculatum Baccharis salicifolia Yucca whipplei

100 16.0 16.0 100 3.0 3.0 100 1.0 1.0 100 0.2 0.2

16.0 X X 3.0 X 1.0 X 0.2 X

Hirschfeldia incana Unknown annual grass Artemisia douglasiana Centaurea melitensis Clarkia Cryptantha

100 100 100 100 100 100

2.0 X X X 1.0 X 0.2 X 0.2 X X 0.2 X 0.2 X

2.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

2.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Hirschfeldia incana, Centaurea melitensis Samples Used in Description: (n = 1) rap2680 Comments: This alliance is represented in the study area only in a few alluvial settings. It is more common inland from the study area in the Los Angeles Basin and other south coastal drainages. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Scale Broom Alliance Riverdisian Alluvial Fan Sage Scrub (in part) Holland (1986) III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.2. Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland III.A.2.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.4.N.b. Intermittently flooded microphyllous shrubland Lepidospartum squamatum Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

The alliance is considered a G4S4, but several associations are ranked as Rare.

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Global Description Distribution: The alliance ranges from central coastal California (western Stanislaus County) south through the California coast ranges and the far southern Sierra Nevada foothills to the western Mojave Desert and south to coastal Baja California, Mexico. Nations: United States, Mexico States or Provinces: CA, Baja California Norte Environmental Description: This shrubland alliance of the arid southwest is found on rarely flooded, low-gradient deposits along streams. Substrates are usually rocky with little soil. Elevations range from sea level to 1,800 m. Annual precipitation is quite variable and episodic but rarely exceeds 30 cm. Summer temperatures are very hot, and some areas in the Mojave may exceed 30 degrees Celsius for many days in the summer. Vegetation Description: Stands of this desert streamside shrubland contain Lepidospartum squamatum as a dominant or important species in the shrub layer. Other shrubs present may include Rhus trilobata, Artemisia tridentata, Artemisia californica, Acacia greggii, Cercocarpus montanus var. glaber, Isomeris arboreus, Encelia farinosa, Eriogonum fasciculatum, Hymenoclea salsola, Yucca whipplei, Lotus scoparius, Eriodictyon crassifolium, Baccharis salicifolia, Toxicodendron diversilobum, Opuntia spp., and Rhus ovata. Emergent individuals of Juniperus californica, Platanus racemosa, Juglans californica var. californica, Populus fremontii, Malosma laurina, Rhus integrifolia, and Sambucus mexicana may be present. Two rare forbs, Dodecahema leptocerus and Eriastrum densifolium subsp. sanctorum, are often associated with stands of this alliance in the eastern Los Angeles Basin. Comments: Cycles of drought and flood shape this alliance. Periodic disturbances such as floods and fires remove shrubs and trees. If stands are not disturbed for a long period of time, emergent trees gradually take over this shrubland. This alliance is much reduced in extent in the southern portion of its range by flood control projects and other development. References: Barbour and Wirka 1997, Reid et al. 1999, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Lotus scoparius Shrubland Association Deerweed Shrubland Association Lotus scoparius Shrubland Alliance Deerweed Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3270 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 24–539 m. It is characterized by the dominance of Lotus scoparius in the shrub layer and a variety of mostly nonnative herbs, none particularly characteristic, in the herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer is generally absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Dry Inland, Immediate Coast, Simi Hills Inland, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 24–539 m, mean 336.8 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–38 degrees, mean 24.5 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating, convex, or flat; middle to upper slope Litter Cover: range 20–65%, mean 37% Small Rock Cover: range 1–60%, mean 23.6% Large Rock Cover: range 0–25%, mean 3.8% Bare Ground: range 5–60%, mean 28.4% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Lotus scoparius Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (4–50%, mean 26.7%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–1 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent (0–42%, mean 8.4%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–2% cover, mean 0.2%) with hardwoods at 0–5 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 13–68%, mean cover is 35.2%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Lotus scoparius. Salvia mellifera, Eriogonum fasciculatum, Artemisia californica, Malosma laurina, and Adenostoma fasciculatum are often included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and infrequently includes Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and may include Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Brassica nigra, and Bromus madritensis.

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Lotus scoparius Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub LOSC2 SAME3 ARCA11 MALA6 ERFA2 ADFA MAFA HASQ2 SALE3 CEME YUWH ERCI5 HEAR5

Lotus scoparius Salvia mellifera Artemisia californica Malosma laurina Eriogonum fasciculatum Adenostoma fasciculatum Malacothamnus fasciculatus Hazardia squarrosa Salvia leucophylla Ceanothus megacarpus Yucca whipplei Eriogonum cinereum Heteromeles arbutifolia

100 13.4 1.0 28.0 60 1.5 0.2 8.0 56 2.6 0.2 15.0 56 0.9 0.2 4.0 56 0.7 0.2 4.0 52 1.1 0.2 6.0 36 1.9 2.0 16.0 28 0.8 0.2 5.0 24 0.7 0.2 7.5 24 0.3 0.2 3.0 24 0.1 0.2 1.0 20 0.8 1.0 10.0 20 0.3 0.2 4.0

CEME2 HIIN3 BRNI BRMA3 BROMU AVFA

Centaurea melitensis Hirschfeldia incana Brassica nigra Bromus madritensis Bromus Avena fatua

36 32 32 32 20 20

X

Herb 0.2 1.0 0.5 0.3 1.0 1.0

0.2 2.0 0.2 7.0 0.2 3.0 0.2 2.0 0.2 10.0 0.2 10.0

X X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Hemizonia minthornii was found in 1 of 25 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G2, and state rank is S2.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is Rare (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 2 of 25 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Brassica nigra, Bromus madritensis, Avena fatua, Avena, Bromus hordeaceus, Erodium cicutarium, Erodium, Foeniculum vulgare, Euphorbia terracina, Bromus diandrus, Erodium moschatum, Anagallis arvensis, Avena barbata, Brassica, Carduus pycnocephalus, Dactylis glomerata, Erodium botrys, Hypochaeris, Piptatherum miliaceum, Sonchus, Sonchus oleraceus Samples Used in Description: (n = 25) AA0007cc, AA0424, AA0675, AA0795, AA1129, rap0339, rap0365m, rap0462, rap0565, rap1093, rap1149, rap1462, rap1875m, rap1936, rap2019, rap2095, rap2102, rap2104, rap2218, rap2358, rap2489, rap2813, rap2847, rap2848, rap2875rlv Comments: This is one of the classic seral shrub associations throughout much of central and southern California. It is characteristic of postfire chaparral and coastal sage scrub. There seems to be no C1188-1/c

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strong reason to further subdivide this association based on short-term differences in subdominant species. The main characteristic of this association is that it reflects a short-term, postfire condition. It has a variety of weakly distinguishable phases that reflects the original prefire vegetation. In general, the phases reflect either a chaparral (e.g., Adenostoma fasciculatum) prefire setting or a coastal sage (e.g., Artemisia californica) prefire setting. Phases: Lotus scoparius-Artemisia californica/Annual Grass-Herb (Deerweed-California Sagebrush/Annual Grass-Herb) Phase [3273] Lotus scoparius-Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Adenostoma fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera (Deerweed-Bush Mallow-Chamise-Black Sage) Phase [3272] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Deerweed Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Lotus scoparius Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S5

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. However, it is likely to occur throughout much of California (e.g., south coast and peninsular ranges, Anza-Borrego Desert, Sierra Nevada foothills, and central and inner north coast ranges). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malacothamnus fasciculatus Shrubland Association Bush Mallow Shrubland Association Malacothamnus fasciculatus Shrubland Alliance Bush Mallow Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3287 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep southwest- and southeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 0–483 m. It is characterized by a strong dominance of Malacothamnus fasciculatus in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is generally insignificant and composed of mostly fire-following natives or widespread nonnative weedy species. The emergent tree layer is generally absent but may include Quercus agrifolia, Juglans californica, and Platanus racemosa. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Western Fog Zone, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and Eastern Urban regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–483 m, mean 304 m Aspect: southwest and southeast Slope: range 2–35 degrees, mean 23.5 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); bottom to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 20–50%, mean 35% Small Rock Cover: range 10–45%, mean 21.4% Large Rock Cover: range 0–1%, mean 0.6% Bare Ground: range 14–60%, mean 32.7% Parent Material: sedimentary and igneous Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Malacothamnus fasciculatus Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (12–54%, mean 34.8%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–22%, mean 5.3%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–5% cover, mean 0.4%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 26–55%, mean cover is 40.4%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Malacothamnus fasciculatus, with Salvia mellifera often present. Artemisia californica, Malosma laurina, Encelia californica, and Ceanothus megacarpus are sometimes included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and infrequently includes Quercus agrifolia, Juglans californica, and Platanus racemosa at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and may include Centaurea melitensis, Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Hirschfeldia incana, and Hemizonia fasciculata.

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Malacothamnus fasciculatus Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub MAFA SAME3 ARCA11 MALA6 ENCA CEME SALE3 ERFA2 ADFA HEAR5 RHOV LOSC2

Malacothamnus fasciculatus Salvia mellifera Artemisia californica Malosma laurina Encelia californica Ceanothus megacarpus Salvia leucophylla Eriogonum fasciculatum Adenostoma fasciculatum Heteromeles arbutifolia Rhus ovata Lotus scoparius

100 27.2 6.0 48.0 X X 58 1.1 0.2 5.0 35 0.4 0.2 3.0 31 1.0 1.0 8.0 31 0.6 0.2 5.0 27 0.8 1.0 6.0 27 0.6 0.2 5.0 27 0.5 0.2 4.0 27 0.3 0.2 3.0 27 0.3 0.2 2.5 23 0.4 0.2 5.0 23 0.1 0.2 1.0

CEME2 BRNI

Centaurea melitensis Brassica nigra

35 31

Herb 0.3 0.5

0.2 0.2

3.0 6.0

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 3 of 26 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus madritensis, Avena fatua, Melilotus indicus, Avena, Avena barbata, Brassica, Carduus pycnocephalus, Pennisetum setaceum, Piptatherum miliaceum Samples Used in Description: (n = 26) AA0381cc, AA0421, AA0626, AA0629, AA0678, AA0681, AA1072, AA1077, AA1099, AA1130, AA1165, AA1166, rap0513, rap0563, rap1185, rap1220, rap1432, rap1530m, rap1599, rap1710, rap1725, rap1727m, rap1728, rap1832, rap2026, rap2065 Comments: This is the first project in which this alliance has been defined. It is a seral, postfire alliance distinguished by the dominance or codominance of the short-lived tall shrub Malacothamnus fasciculatus. The diversity of associations defined in the SAMO study area is indicative of the diversity of recent postfire settings in chaparral and coastal sage scrub in these mountains. This association is the most pure expression of the alliance. In this association, the variety of associated shrub species is almost equally derived from chaparral and coastal sage scrub vegetation (though none are strongly represented at high frequency or cover). Thus, this association may be the result of fire having burned through a stand of chaparral or coastal sage scrub without a large component of resprouting shrubs or where the obligate seeding species other than M. fasciculatus had less than favorable postfire germination. Phases: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Bush Mallow Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Malacothamnus fasciculatus Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

61Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Association Bush Mallow-Big Pod Ceanothus Shrubland Association Malacothamnus fasciculatus Shrubland Alliance Bush Mallow Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3288 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on moderate to very steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 139–467 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Malacothamnus fasciculatus and Ceanothus megacarpus in the shrub layer. The simple herbaceous layer is not distinctive. The emergent tree layer is usually absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Immediate Coast, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 139–467 m, mean 309.9 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 12–48 degrees, mean 28.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); bottom to middle slope Litter Cover: range 15–50%, mean 32.5% Small Rock Cover: range 10–20%, mean 13.3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–3%, mean 1% Bare Ground: range 40–57%, mean 49% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (30–57%, mean 45.2%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–20%, mean 4%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are not present. Total vegetation cover is 38–57%, mean cover is 49.2%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Ceanothus megacarpus, Malacothamnus fasciculatus, Malosma laurina, and Salvia mellifera. Adenostoma fasciculatum and Cercocarpus betuloides are often included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Centaurea melitensis, Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, and Bromus madritensis.

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Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Ceanothus megacarpus Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub CEME MAFA MALA6 SAME3 CEBE3 ADFA ARCA11 HEAR5 YUWH RHOV ENCA ERFA2 SALE3 ERCI5 ADSP CESP ERCO25 LOSC2 SAME5

Ceanothus megacarpus Malacothamnus fasciculatus Malosma laurina Salvia mellifera Cercocarpus betuloides Adenostoma fasciculatum Artemisia californica Heteromeles arbutifolia Yucca whipplei Rhus ovata Encelia californica Eriogonum fasciculatum Salvia leucophylla Eriogonum cinereum Adenostoma sparsifolium Ceanothus spinosus Eriophyllum confertiflorum Lotus scoparius Sambucus mexicana

100 100 90 80 50 50 40 40 40 40 40 40 20 20 20 20 20 20 20

22.0 14.3 2.9 2.0 1.4 0.5 0.5 0.4 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.8 0.3 0.2 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01

7.0 32.0 X X 5.0 27.0 X X 0.2 16.0 X 0.2 5.0 X 1.0 5.0 0.2 3.0 0.2 3.0 0.2 2.5 0.2 2.5 0.2 2.0 0.2 1.0 0.2 1.0 2.5 5.0 1.0 2.0 0.2 2.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

CEME2 BRDI3 BRNI BRMA3 BROMU AVFA AVENA PHCI FOVU LECO12 MAMA8

Centaurea melitensis Bromus diandrus Brassica nigra Bromus madritensis Bromus Avena fatua Avena Phacelia cicutaria Foeniculum vulgare Leymus condensatus Marah macrocarpus

50 40 40 30 20 20 20 20 20 20 20

0.1 1.6 0.4 0.1 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.01 0.01

0.2 0.2 0.2 15.0 0.2 3.0 0.2 0.2 1.0 2.5 0.2 3.0 0.2 2.5 0.2 2.5 0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Herb X X X X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Bromus diandrus, Brassica nigra, Bromus madritensis, Avena fatua, Avena, Foeniculum vulgare, Carduus pycnocephalus, Hirschfeldia incana, Melilotus indicus, Piptatherum miliaceum Samples Used in Description: (n = 10) AA0129cc, AA1028, AA1047, rap1222, rap1411m, rap1567, rap1642, rap1652, rap1692, rap2063 Comments: In keeping with the discussion under the local comments of the Malacothamnus fasciculatus Association of this alliance (above), this particular association is reflective of the recent postfire settings where Ceanothus megacarpus is the principal reseeding native shrub. Most

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Malacothamnus fasciculatus individuals in these stands will be crowded out and shade suppressed by the longer-lived and more broadly spreading C. megacarpus within a decade of the fire event. The general decision was made in the classification of this alliance to include codominant shrub species of either the respective chaparral or coastal sage scrub analog alliances (e.g., Ceanothus megacarpus, C. spinosus, Malosma laurina, or Salvia leucophylla) within the seral Malacothamnus fasciculatus Alliance. This was because these situations are all typically shortlived and reflective first of the postfire condition and then of the overall environmental conditions (temperature, moisture, and perhaps soil fertility). Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Bush Mallow-Big Pod Ceanothus Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Malacothamnus fasciculatus Shrubland Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland Association Bush Mallow-Greenbark Ceanothus Shrubland Association Malacothamnus fasciculatus Shrubland Alliance Bush Mallow Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3289 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 179–648 m. It is characterized by codominance of Malacothamnus fasciculatus and Ceanothus spinosus in the shrub layer. The simple herbaceous layer is not distinctive. The emergent tree layer includes occasional Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 179–648 m, mean 434.5 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–35 degrees, mean 20.6 degrees Topography (micro; macro): concave or undulating; bottom to upper slope Litter Cover: range 45–60%, mean 52.5% Small Rock Cover: range 15–50%, mean 27% Large Rock Cover: range 2–15%, mean 7% Bare Ground: range 10–35%, mean 21.7% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: no data Vegetation Description: Stands of Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (38–60%, mean 49.2%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–2%, mean 0.5%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–6% cover, mean 0.9%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 41–60%, mean cover is 50.2%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Ceanothus spinosus and Malacothamnus fasciculatus. Malosma laurina, Heteromeles arbutifolia, Adenostoma fasciculatum, and Cercocarpus betuloides are often included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia and Umbellularia californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple, and Leymus condensatus, Marah macrocarpus, and Bromus madritensis are sometimes present.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Ceanothus spinosus Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub MAFA CESP MALA6 HEAR5 ADFA CEBE3 RHOV CEME SAME3 CECU PRIL MIAU ENCA Herb LECO12 MAMA8

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

23

0.5

0.2

Malacothamnus fasciculatus Ceanothus spinosus Malosma laurina Heteromeles arbutifolia Adenostoma fasciculatum Cercocarpus betuloides Rhus ovata Ceanothus megacarpus Salvia mellifera Ceanothus cuneatus Prunus ilicifolia Mimulus aurantiacus Encelia californica

100 18.5 7.0 33.0 X X 100 17.2 2.5 27.0 X X 69 3.2 1.0 9.0 69 1.7 0.2 7.0 62 1.5 0.2 5.0 54 2.5 0.2 15.0 46 1.4 0.2 10.0 38 1.1 1.0 7.5 38 1.0 0.2 7.0 23 0.5 0.2 5.0 23 0.5 0.2 4.0 23 0.3 0.2 2.0 23 0.01 0.2 0.2

Leymus condensatus Marah macrocarpus

23 23

0.4 1.0 0.01 0.2

6.0

2.5 0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 2 of 13 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Avena, Brassica nigra, Bromus madritensis, Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana Samples Used in Description: (n = 13) AA0208cc, AA0275cc, AA0475cc, AA0529, rap1212, rap1513m, rap1629, rap1631, rap1649, rap2384, rap2419, rap2627, rap2757 Comments: This is the most mesic association of the M. fasciculatus Alliance. In keeping with the discussion under the local comments of the Malacothamnus fasciculatus Association of this alliance (above), this particular association is reflective of the recent postfire settings where Ceanothus spinosus is the principal native shrub. Most Malacothamnus fasciculatus individuals in these stands will be crowded out and shade suppressed by the longer-lived and more broadly spreading C. spinosus within a decade of the fire event. The general decision was made in the classification of this alliance to include codominant shrub species of either the respective chaparral or coastal sage scrub analog alliances (e.g., Ceanothus megacarpus, C. spinosus, Malosma laurina, or Salvia leucophylla) within the seral Malacothamnus fasciculatus Alliance. This was because these situations are all typically short lived and reflective first of the postfire condition and then of the overall environmental conditions (temperature, moisture, and perhaps soil fertility).

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Bush Mallow-Greenbark Ceanothus Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Malacothamnus fasciculatus Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: Since Ceanothus spinosus is a facultative resprouter (i.e., it both resprouts and germinates from seed following fires, per Borchert et al. 2004), it would be expected to overtop and shade out M. fasciculatus relatively rapidly following fire events. Thus, this association is likely to be even shorter lived than other associations in this alliance. References: Borchert et al. 2004

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Malosma laurina Shrubland Association Bush Mallow-Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association Malacothamnus fasciculatus Shrubland Alliance Bush Mallow Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3286 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 18–366 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Malacothamnus fasciculatus and Malosma laurina in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer often has low cover of Leymus condensatus. The emergent tree layer is generally absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Hills Inland, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 18–366 m, mean 153.3 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–40 degrees, mean 16.2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); bottom to middle slope Litter Cover: range 40–80%, mean 62% Small Rock Cover: range 0–30%, mean 10.7% Large Rock Cover: range 0–5%, mean 0.8% Bare Ground: range 0–35%, mean 16.8% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine to fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Malosma laurina Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (28–59%, mean 42.5%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–22%, mean 5.5%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–4% cover, mean 0.6%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 30–65%, mean cover is 47.7%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Malacothamnus fasciculatus and Malosma laurina. Salvia leucophylla and Artemisia californica are usually included in this layer. Other shrubs sometimes include Encelia californica, Baccharis pilularis, Salvia mellifera, Hazardia squarrosa, and Eriogonum cinereum. The tree layer is emergent and open and sometimes includes Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and often includes Leymus condensatus. Other herbs may include Bromus madritensis, Brassica nigra, Nassella lepida, and Marah macrocarpus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Malosma laurina Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub MAFA MALA6 SALE3 ARCA11 ENCA BAPI SAME3 HASQ2 ERCI5 RHIN2 CEBE3 CESP

Malacothamnus fasciculatus Malosma laurina Salvia leucophylla Artemisia californica Encelia californica Baccharis pilularis Salvia mellifera Hazardia squarrosa Eriogonum cinereum Rhus integrifolia Cercocarpus betuloides Ceanothus spinosus

100 21.2 7.5 35.0 X X 100 15.1 7.5 38.0 X X 52 1.3 0.2 8.0 48 1.0 0.2 5.0 43 0.7 0.2 7.0 43 0.5 0.2 2.5 39 0.4 0.2 3.0 35 0.3 0.2 2.5 35 0.2 0.2 2.5 26 0.3 0.2 3.0 22 0.5 0.2 8.0 22 0.4 1.0 3.0

LECO12 BRMA3 BRNI NALE2

Leymus condensatus Bromus madritensis Brassica nigra Nassella lepida

61 35 30 26

Herb 2.2 0.4 0.3 0.8

0.2 20.0 X 0.2 6.0 0.2 2.5 0.2 15.0

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Baccharis plummerae was found in 1 of 23 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-1-3. Global rank is G3T3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 23 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 3 of 23 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus madritensis, Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus diandrus, Erodium cicutarium, Melilotus indicus, Hirschfeldia incana, Silybum marianum, Lactuca serriola, Anagallis arvensis, Avena barbata, Erodium, Malva parviflora, Marrubium vulgare, Melilotus Samples Used in Description: (n = 23) AA0268cc, AA0453cc, AA0464cc, AA0637, AA0886, AA0899, AA1065, rap0173, rap0518, rap0943m, rap1061, rap1084, rap1100, rap1148, rap1195, rap1215, rap1347, rap1348m, rap1349, rap1418, rap2266, rap2276, rap2317 Comments: This association of the M. fasciculatus Alliance is usually found in lower elevation settings where prefire conditions were likely to support stands of Artemisia californica, Salvia leucophylla, or C1188-1/c

435

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malosma laurina Alliance stands. The general vegetation environment of this association can be considered coastal sage scrub, rather than chaparral. Occasional Ceanothus spinosus within these stands suggests that at least some stands are mesic, but most are probably relatively dry sites within the zone of summer fog. See comments on the related M. fasciculatus-Salvia leucophylla Association for the similarities between these two associations. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Bush Mallow-Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Malacothamnus fasciculatus Shrubland Alliance 2 (many plots but similar ecological setting to another closely related association of the same alliance)

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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436

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Salvia leucophylla Shrubland Association Bush Mallow-Purple Sage Shrubland Association Malacothamnus fasciculatus Shrubland Alliance Bush Mallow Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3281 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on moderate to steep northwest facing slopes at low elevations between 5–576 m. It is characterized by a dominance of Malosma fasciculatum and a subdominance of Salvia leucophylla in the shrub layer and Leymus condensatus in the herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer infrequently includes Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland, Immediate Coast, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Western Fog Zone, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 5–576 m, mean 337.7 m Aspect: northwest Slope: range 2–45 degrees, mean 26.2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat, convex, or undulating; lower slope to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 15–65%, mean 33.8% Small Rock Cover: range 10–50%, mean 24% Large Rock Cover: range 0–2%, mean 0.4% Bare Ground: range 2–55%, mean 29% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Salvia leucophylla Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (18–58%, mean 39.7%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent (0–36%, mean 5.7%) at 0–2 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–5% cover, mean 0.5%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 32–60%, mean cover is 46%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Malacothamnus fasciculatus, Salvia leucophylla, and Artemisia californica. Malosma laurina, Rhus ovata, Lotus scoparius, and Encelia californica are sometimes included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Brassica nigra, Leymus condensatus, Centaurea melitensis, and Bromus madritensis.

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437

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Salvia leucophylla Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub MAFA SALE3 ARCA11 MALA6 RHOV LOSC2 ENCA HEAR5 SAME3 YUWH ERCI5

Malacothamnus fasciculatus Salvia leucophylla Artemisia californica Malosma laurina Rhus ovata Lotus scoparius Encelia californica Heteromeles arbutifolia Salvia mellifera Yucca whipplei Eriogonum cinereum

100 20.1 8.0 38.0 X X 94 7.9 0.2 20.0 X 86 5.4 0.2 18.0 X 54 1.1 0.2 6.0 34 0.7 0.2 6.0 29 0.8 0.2 9.0 29 0.8 0.2 10.0 26 0.5 0.2 5.0 26 0.4 0.2 3.0 26 0.2 0.2 2.5 20 0.5 0.2 5.0

LECO12 BRNI CEME2 BRMA3

Leymus condensatus Brassica nigra Centaurea melitensis Bromus madritensis

43 43 29 26

Herb 1.9 0.9 0.4 0.3

0.2 15.0 0.2 7.5 0.2 5.0 0.2 5.0

X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 35 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 10 of 35 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Anagallis arvensis, Melilotus indicus, Avena barbata, Conium maculatum, Nicotiana glauca, Avena fatua, Bromus diandrus, Bromus hordeaceus, Cynodon dactylon, Erodium, Erodium cicutarium, Foeniculum vulgare, Phalaris aquatica Samples Used in Description: (n = 35) AA0082cc, AA0445cc, AA0461cc, AA0494cc, AA0495cc, AA0696, AA0848, AA0948, AA1030, rap0975, rap0999, rap1001m, rap1074m, rap1150, rap1345m, rap1396, rap1399, rap1400, rap1404, rap1531, rap1555, rap1579, rap1581, rap1678m, rap1726, rap1858, rap1922, rap1948m, rap1949, rap2027, rap2028, rap2483, rap2505, rap2572, rap2597 Comments: This association of the Malacothamnus fasciculatus Alliance can be considered another seral stage in the general vegetation realm of the coastal sage scrub. In this association the major associate of the bush mallow is Salvia leucophylla. Although both Malosma laurina and Artemisia californica are present in more than half the stands, their cover is substantially lower than their average cover in the M. fasciculatus-Malosma laurina Association. Conversely, Salvia leucophylla is in higher cover than in that association. However, in many ways this association

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

and the previous M. fasciculatus-Malosma laurina Association are very similar and their distinction at the association level is somewhat questionable. There may be a rationale, with further analysis, to consider both as phases of a larger, more broadly encompassing association. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Bush Mallow-Purple Sage Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Malacothamnus fasciculatus Shrubland Alliance 2 (many plots but similar ecological setting to another closely related association of the same alliance)

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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439

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Association Bush Mallow-Black Sage Shrubland Association Malacothamnus fasciculatus Shrubland Alliance Bush Mallow Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3282 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 152–477 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Malacothamnus fasciculatus and Salvia mellifera in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is indistinct. The emergent tree layer includes occasional Juglans californica and Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Dry Inland, and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 152–477 m, mean 318 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–35 degrees, mean 23.5 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating or concave; bottom to upper slope Litter Cover: range 30–45%, mean 33.8% Small Rock Cover: range 5–45%, mean 20% Large Rock Cover: range 0–5%, mean 1.7% Bare Ground: range 15–50%, mean 33.3% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Salvia mellifera Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (24–50%, mean 35.1%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–17%, mean 4.1%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–7% cover, mean 1.1%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 27–55%, mean cover is 40.3%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Salvia mellifera and Malacothamnus fasciculatus. Malosma laurina, Artemisia californica, Yucca whipplei, and Adenostoma fasciculatum are usually included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Juglans californica and Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Centaurea melitensis, Brassica nigra, Bromus madritensis, and Bromus diandrus.

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440

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Salvia mellifera Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub MAFA SAME3 MALA6 ARCA11 YUWH ADFA ENCA CEME ERFA2 SAME5 HASQ2 LOSC2 RHOV SALE3

Malacothamnus fasciculatus Salvia mellifera Malosma laurina Artemisia californica Yucca whipplei Adenostoma fasciculatum Encelia californica Ceanothus megacarpus Eriogonum fasciculatum Sambucus mexicana Hazardia squarrosa Lotus scoparius Rhus ovata Salvia leucophylla

100 12.7 2.0 28.0 X X 100 10.9 6.0 16.0 X X 67 2.2 0.2 6.0 58 2.5 0.2 12.0 50 0.3 0.2 2.0 50 0.2 0.2 1.0 42 0.8 0.2 7.0 33 1.2 0.2 10.0 25 0.7 2.0 4.0 25 0.1 0.2 1.0 25 0.1 0.2 0.2 25 0.1 0.2 0.2 25 0.1 0.2 0.2 25 0.1 0.2 0.2

CEME2 BRNI BRMA3 BRDI3

Centaurea melitensis Brassica nigra Bromus madritensis Bromus diandrus

42 42 42 33

Herb 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.4

0.2 0.2 0.2 1.0

3.0 5.0 2.0 2.0

X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Delphinium parryi was found in 1 of 12 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 3-2-3. Global rank is G4T2, and state rank is S2.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 3 of 12 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Brassica nigra, Bromus madritensis, Bromus diandrus, Avena fatua, Marrubium vulgare, Anagallis arvensis, Erodium, Erodium cicutarium, Medicago polymorpha, Melilotus indicus Samples Used in Description: (n = 12) AA0562, rap0855, rap0945, rap1145, rap1264, rap1299, rap1337, rap1387m, rap1600, rap1798, rap1999, rap2902 Comments: This association of the Malacothamnus fasciculatus Alliance bridges the gap between chaparral and coastal sage scrub based on the derivation of its prefire species pool. There is a fairly even mix of typical coastal sage species (Encelia californica, Artemisia californica) and chaparral species (Adenostoma fasciculatum, Ceanothus megacarpus) along with species such as Salvia mellifera, Eriogonum fasciculatum, and Malosma laurina, which may be found in either.

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441

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Bush Mallow-Black Sage Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Malacothamnus fasciculatus Shrubland Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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442

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malosma laurina Shrubland Association Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association Malosma laurina Shrubland Alliance Laurel Sumac Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 7142 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to very steep southeast- to northwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 0–528 m. It is characterized by a dominance of Malosma laurina in the shrub layer and a relatively nondescript herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer includes Quercus agrifolia in about 20% of the stands. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Eastern Urban, Immediate Coast, Simi Hills Inland, Western Fog Zone, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Dry Inland, and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–528 m, mean 235.7 m Aspect: southeast to northwest Slope: range 2–65 degrees, mean 23.4 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); bottom to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 25–85%, mean 57.5% Small Rock Cover: range 0–50%, mean 16.4% Large Rock Cover: range 0–60%, mean 4.5% Bare Ground: range 0–60%, mean 19.8% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Malosma laurina Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (7–64%, mean 31.7%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–10 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent (0–-45%, mean 10%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–17% cover, mean 1.4%) with conifers at 0–10 m tall and hardwoods at 0–15 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 21–68%, mean cover is 42.8%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Malosma laurina. Artemisia californica, Eriogonum fasciculatum, Salvia mellifera, Heteromeles arbutifolia, and Ceanothus megacarpus are sometimes included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia, Juglans californica, Platanus racemosa, and Schinus molle at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Brassica nigra, Leymus condensatus, Bromus diandrus, Centaurea melitensis, and Hirschfeldia incana.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malosma laurina Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub MALA6 ARCA11 ERFA2 SAME3 HEAR5 CEME SAME5 MAFA RHOV BAPI RHIN2 Herb BRNI LECO12 BRDI3 CEME2 HIIN3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

21

0.4

Malosma laurina Artemisia californica Eriogonum fasciculatum Salvia mellifera Heteromeles arbutifolia Ceanothus megacarpus Sambucus mexicana Malacothamnus fasciculatus Rhus ovata Baccharis pilularis Rhus integrifolia

100 23.0 5.0 49.0 X X 49 0.6 0.2 7.0 46 0.9 0.2 8.0 43 0.7 0.2 5.0 37 0.7 0.2 5.0 30 0.6 0.2 7.5 29 0.6 0.2 9.0 24 0.6 0.2 8.0 22 0.4 0.2 6.0 21 0.5 0.2 7.0 21 0.2 0.2 3.0

Brassica nigra Leymus condensatus Bromus diandrus Centaurea melitensis Hirschfeldia incana

33 27 24 24 22

1.0 0.2 2.2 0.7 1.0

0.2

6.0

0.2 9.0 0.2 7.5 0.2 27.0 0.2 15.0 0.2 15.0

X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Hemizonia minthornii was found in 1 of 63 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G2, and state rank is S2.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is Rare (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 10 of 63 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Nicotiana glauca, Pennisetum setaceum, Bromus madritensis, Marrubium vulgare, Avena, Ricinus communis, Eucalyptus, Bromus hordeaceus, Erodium, Myoporum laetum, Piptatherum miliaceum, Foeniculum vulgare, Euphorbia terracina, Avena fatua, Lactuca serriola, Conium maculatum, Erodium botrys, Avena barbata, Lobularia maritima, Romneya coulteri, Carpobrotus chilensis, Anagallis arvensis, Carduus pycnocephalus, Carpobrotus edulis, Chenopodium ambrosioides, Conyza canadensis, Cortaderia, Opuntia ficus-indica, Salsola tragus, Schinus molle Samples Used in Description: (n = 63) AA0075cc, AA0076cc, AA0174cc, AA0307cc, AA0342, AA0438, AA0440, AA0547, AA0560, AA0638, AA0690, AA0717, AA0726, AA0733, AA0787, AA0794, AA0796, AA0803, AA0806, AA0809, AA0881, AA0896, AA0970, AA0986, AA0990, AA0999, AA1000, AA1066, AA1121, AA1152, rap0045, rap0060, rap0167, rap0172, rap0241, rap0342, rap0514, rap0523, rap0758, rap0771, rap0811, rap0812, rap0814, rap0816, rap0818, rap0828, rap0834, rap0910, rap1042,

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444

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

rap1043, rap1046, rap1098, rap1537, rap1568, rap1803m, rap1990, rap2099, rap2278, rap2320, rap2330, rap2562rlv, rap2604, rap2750 Comments: The Santa Monica Mountains hold the dubious distinction of being the center for diversity of the Malosma laurina Alliance in the known world—dubious because of the apparent fact that M. laurina has increased its presence throughout its range in the historic past (Taylor 2004 and Stephen Davis personal communication 2003). The dominant species in this alliance resprouts prodigiously from the base following fire and with higher fire frequencies may tend to dominate stands that were once composed of a higher diversity of shrub species. This is the basic association of this locally diverse alliance where M. laurina is by far the most dominant species with little else to distinguish it. Two phases have been defined—a phase with a relatively dense overstory of M. laurina and a more open phase with scattered annual grasses and herbs in the understory. Phases: Malosma laurina (Laurel Sumac) Phase [7142] Malosma laurina/Annual Grass-Herb (Laurel Sumac/Annual Grass-Herb) Phase [2145] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Laurel Sumac Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Malosma laurina Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. The alliance is known from San Diego County and from western Riverside County as well (Evens and San 2005 and Klein and Evens 2005). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description.

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Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005, Taylor 2004

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica Shrubland Association Laurel Sumac-California Sagebrush Shrubland Association Malosma laurina Shrubland Alliance Laurel Sumac Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 7148 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep northeast- and northwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 2–611 m. It is characterized by a dominance of Malosma laurina and a subdominance of Artemisia californica; in many cases, Salvia leucophylla in the shrub layer; and typically a minor presence of the grass Leymus condensatus in the herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer is usually absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast, Western Fog Zone, Simi Hills Inland, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Dry Inland, and Eastern Urban regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 2–611 m, mean 227.6 m Aspect: northeast and northwest Slope: range 2–40 degrees, mean 25.4 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating, convex, or flat; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 50–50%, mean 50% Small Rock Cover: range 0–35%, mean 10.1% Large Rock Cover: range 0–4%, mean 0.5% Bare Ground: range 5–55%, mean 27.1% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam to fine clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (10–63%, mean 40.2%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0.5–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent (0–36%, mean 5.9%) at 0–2 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–11% cover, mean 0.8%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 26–65%, mean cover is 46.8%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Malosma laurina and Artemisia californica. Salvia leucophylla is often present. Malacothamnus fasciculatus, Eriogonum cinereum, Mimulus aurantiacus, Salvia mellifera, Baccharis pilularis, and Sambucus mexicana are sometimes included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and often includes Leymus condensatus. Other herbs may include Nassella lepida, Centaurea melitensis, Brassica nigra, and Marah macrocarpus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub MALA6 ARCA11 SALE3 MAFA ERCI5 MIAU SAME3 BAPI SAME5 HEAR5

Malosma laurina Artemisia californica Salvia leucophylla Malacothamnus fasciculatus Eriogonum cinereum Mimulus aurantiacus Salvia mellifera Baccharis pilularis Sambucus mexicana Heteromeles arbutifolia

100 20.2 8.0 46.0 100 7.4 0.2 15.0 73 7.1 0.2 20.0 44 0.9 0.2 12.0 35 0.6 0.2 7.5 33 0.9 0.2 7.0 27 0.8 0.2 6.0 25 0.6 0.2 10.0 25 0.2 0.2 2.0 23 0.7 0.2 12.0

LECO12

Leymus condensatus

56

X X

Herb 1.9

0.2 17.0

Other Noteworthy Species: Baccharis plummerae was found in 1 of 48 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-1-3. Global rank is G3T3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 48 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 9 of 48 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Brassica nigra, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus madritensis, Phalaris aquatica, Euphorbia terracina, Nicotiana glauca, Bromus hordeaceus, Erodium, Acacia redolens, Melilotus indicus, Myoporum laetum, Senecio mikanioides, Anagallis arvensis, Avena barbata, Avena fatua, Bromus diandrus, Erodium cicutarium, Eucalyptus, Foeniculum vulgare, Marrubium vulgare Samples Used in Description: (n = 48) AA0273cc, AA0437, AA0570, AA0700, AA0722, AA0763, AA0767, AA0793, AA0797, AA0800, AA0849, AA0882, AA0935, AA1004, AA1150, AA1151, rap0025m, rap0059, rap0067, rap0074, rap0088, rap0214, rap0656m, rap0683, rap0685, rap0989, rap0995m, rap0997, rap1007, rap1066, rap1089m, rap1091, rap1194, rap1245m, rap1416, rap1417, rap1453, rap1503, rap1538, rap1617, rap1766m, rap2037, rap2069, rap2302, rap2477, rap2732, rap2741, rap2763 Comments: This association of the Malosma laurina Alliance is distinguished by the subdominance of the coastal sage scrub species, especially Artemisia californica and often S. leucophylla. The current model of how this association has arisen as a common type is that higher than historic fire frequencies and perhaps other disturbance, such as brush clearing, has afforded the resprouter

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Malosma laurina the opportunity to dominate over what otherwise may have previously been stands historically dominated by Artemisia californica and/or Salvia leucophylla. Two phases of this association have been identified based on either the singular presence of Artemisia californica or a mixture of it and Salvia leucophylla associated with the dominant species. Phases: Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica (Laurel Sumac-California Sagebrush) Phase [7148] Malosma laurina-Artemisia californica-Salvia leucophylla (Laurel Sumac-California SagebrushPurple Sage) Phase [2142] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Laurel Sumac-California Sagebrush Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Malosma laurina Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi Valley-Santa Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is likely present in low elevation slopes of southern California from the peninsular to transverse ranges from San Diego County north to Ventura County. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This association is similarly described in western Riverside and San Diego counties. However, it is within the Artemisia californica Alliance as the Artemisia californica-Malosma laurina Association where Malosma laurina is consistently present as a codominant or subdominant shrub. Shrubs Salvia apiana, Mimulus aurantiacus, and Eriogonum fasciculatum are often present at low cover. References: Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malosma laurina-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Association Laurel Sumac-Ashy Buckwheat Shrubland Association Malosma laurina Shrubland Alliance Laurel Sumac Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2141 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to abrupt southwest- and southeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 0–550 m. It is characterized by a dominance of Malosma laurina and a subdominance of Eriogonum cinereum in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is relatively insignificant with no apparent indicator species. The emergent tree layer is usually absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast, Western Fog Zone, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Eastern Urban, and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–550 m, mean 153.3 m Aspect: southwest and southeast Slope: range 2–70 degrees, mean 31.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); bottom to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 8–75%, mean 32.6% Small Rock Cover: range 0–60%, mean 26% Large Rock Cover: range 0–70%, mean 6.7% Bare Ground: range 0–75%, mean 24.7% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Malosma laurina-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (10–52%, mean 33.7%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent (0–34%, mean 4.1%) at 0–2 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–5% cover, mean 0.2%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 10–58%, mean cover is 37.9%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Malosma laurina, Eriogonum cinereum, and Salvia mellifera. Artemisia californica, Yucca whipplei, and Encelia californica are frequently included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Juglans californica and Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and may include Leymus condensatus, Brassica nigra, Bromus madritensis, and Nassella lepida.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malosma laurina-Eriogonum cinereum Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub MALA6 ERCI5 SAME3 ARCA11 YUWH ENCA RHIN2 HEAR5 MAFA LOSC2 RHOV ERFA2 CEME

Malosma laurina Eriogonum cinereum Salvia mellifera Artemisia californica Yucca whipplei Encelia californica Rhus integrifolia Heteromeles arbutifolia Malacothamnus fasciculatus Lotus scoparius Rhus ovata Eriogonum fasciculatum Ceanothus megacarpus

100 12.4 2.0 31.0 96 6.2 0.2 19.0 76 4.4 0.2 15.0 73 2.3 0.2 15.0 70 1.2 0.2 7.5 53 1.6 0.2 15.0 40 1.5 0.2 13.0 38 0.5 0.2 3.0 33 1.0 0.2 10.0 32 0.7 0.2 12.0 26 0.5 0.2 5.0 23 0.4 0.2 11.0 22 0.5 0.2 7.5

LECO12 BRNI

Leymus condensatus Brassica nigra

34 20

X X X

Herb 0.8 0.2

0.2 0.2

9.0 5.0

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 3 of 98 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 3 of 98 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Bromus madritensis, Pennisetum setaceum, Centaurea melitensis, Avena, Bromus diandrus, Erodium, Nicotiana glauca, Hirschfeldia incana, Foeniculum vulgare, Avena fatua, Avena barbata, Euphorbia terracina, Piptatherum miliaceum, Salsola tragus, Cortaderia, Erodium cicutarium, Melilotus indicus, Anagallis arvensis, Arundo donax, Brassica, Bromus hordeaceus, Malva parviflora, Marrubium vulgare, Melilotus, Oxalis pes-caprae, Ricinus communis, Senecio vulgaris, Sisymbrium, Sonchus asper Samples Used in Description: (n = 98) AA0012cc, AA0013cc, AA0045cc, AA0072cc, AA0081cc, AA0117cc, AA0119cc, AA0120cc, AA0175cc, AA0177cc, AA0206cc, AA0212cc, AA0277cc, AA0278cc, AA0358cc, AA0371cc, AA0374cc, AA0376cc, AA0383, AA0387cc, AA0405, AA0450cc, AA0451cc, AA0452cc, AA0480cc, AA0493cc, AA0511, AA0633, AA0634, AA0656, AA0701, AA0718, AA0875, AA0884, AA0892, AA0898, AA0923, AA1023, AA1026, AA1027, AA1032, AA1048, AA1051, AA1157, rap0033m, rap0112, rap0169, rap0178, rap0185, rap0207, rap0209, rap0385, rap0425m, rap0517, rap0687, rap0738, rap0852, rap0885, rap0963, rap0964, rap0966m, rap0968m, rap0993, rap1003, rap1018, rap1019, rap1020, rap1049, rap1067, rap1069, rap1070, rap1075, rap1081m, rap1090, rap1123, rap1162, rap1189, rap1214m, rap1303, rap1306m, rap1340,

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

rap1362, rap1363, rap1364, rap1366, rap1377, rap1408m, rap1736, rap2166, rap2541rlv, rap2542rlv, rap2552, rap2561rlv, rap2618, rap2716, rap2784, rap2819, rap2908rlv Comments: This is a common and likely largely endemic association to the study area. It is common on steep southerly facing slopes, mostly close to the coast. The variety of associated species can be seen by scanning the list of minor phases that have been identified in the area. In general, variation is increased by seral stage (mostly time since fire influencing the presence of such species as Lotus scoparius and Malacothamnus fasciculatus) and local site conditions (slightly hotter and better drained slopes may have more Salvia mellifera while more coastal foggy slopes may have more Rhus integrifolia and Artemisia californica). However, the degree of overlap between these phases in species cover and composition was too great to warrant further separation into distinct associations. Phases: Malosma laurina-Eriogonum cinereum (Laurel Sumac-Ashy Buckwheat) Phase [2141] Malosma laurina-Rhus integrifolia-Eriogonum cinereum-Artemisia californica (Laurel SumacLemonade Berry-Ashy Buckwheat-California Sagebrush) Phase [21413] Malosma laurina-Malacothamnus fasciculatus-Eriogonum cinereum-Salvia mellifera (Laurel Sumac-Bush Mallow-Ashy Buckwheat-Black Sage) Phase [7146] Malosma laurina-Eriogonum cinereum-Lotus scoparius (Laurel Sumac-Ashy BuckwheatDeerweed) Phase [7144] Malosma laurina-Eriogonum cinereum-Salvia mellifera (Laurel Sumac-Ashy Buckwheat-Black Sage) Phase [7141] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Laurel Sumac-Ashy Buckwheat Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Malosma laurina Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States

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States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland Association Laurel Sumac-California Buckwheat Shrubland Association Malosma laurina Shrubland Alliance Laurel Sumac Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 21423 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to abrupt southwest- and southeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 0–602 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Malosma laurina and Eriogonum fasciculatum in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is insignificant. The emergent tree layer is usually absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Eastern Urban, Western Fog Zone, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Immediate Coast, Dry Inland, and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–602, mean 413.7 m Aspect: southwest and southeast Slope: range 15–75 degrees, mean 35.1 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); middle to upper slope Litter Cover: range 2–35%, mean 16.8% Small Rock Cover: range 2–65%, mean 29.7% Large Rock Cover: range 0–85%, mean 7.6% Bare Ground: range 2–45%, mean 21.2% Parent Material: metamorphic, sedimentary, or igneous Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (4–54%, mean 31.1%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–16%, mean 3.4%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–4% cover, mean 0.1%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 4–55%, mean cover is 34.4%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Eriogonum fasciculatum and Malosma laurina. Ceanothus megacarpus, Salvia mellifera, Heteromeles arbutifolia, Rhus ovata, and Adenostoma fasciculatum are frequently included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and infrequently includes Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and may include Brassica nigra, Melica imperfecta, Centaurea melitensis, Gnaphalium sp., and Bromus diandrus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ERFA2 MALA6 CEME SAME3 HEAR5 RHOV ADFA YUWH ARCA11 CESP

Eriogonum fasciculatum Malosma laurina Ceanothus megacarpus Salvia mellifera Heteromeles arbutifolia Rhus ovata Adenostoma fasciculatum Yucca whipplei Artemisia californica Ceanothus spinosus

100 12.3 3.0 28.0 100 9.6 0.2 20.0 64 1.5 0.2 7.5 57 0.9 0.2 6.0 55 1.6 0.2 7.5 53 0.9 0.2 7.5 50 0.7 0.2 5.0 48 0.2 0.2 2.5 28 0.5 0.2 8.0 26 0.3 0.2 4.0

BROMU

Bromus

26

X X

Herb 1.0

0.2 15.0

Other Noteworthy Species: Eriogonum crocatum was found in 1 of 58 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G2, and state rank is S2.1 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is Rare (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 1 of 58 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Avena, Bromus diandrus, Bromus madritensis, Avena barbata, Hirschfeldia incana, Nicotiana glauca, Brassica, Pennisetum setaceum, Acacia redolens, Avena fatua, Eucalyptus, Marrubium vulgare, Piptatherum miliaceum, Ricinus communis Samples Used in Description: (n = 58) AA0057cc, AA0095cc, AA0127cc, AA0167cc, AA0248cc, AA0249cc, AA0343, AA0347, AA0548, AA0584, AA0665, AA0703, AA0773, AA0833, AA0835, AA0840, AA0940, AA0985, AA1169, AA1170, AA1217, rap0162m, rap0234m, rap0238, rap0240m, rap0301, rap0311, rap0314, rap0319, rap0320, rap0322m, rap0323, rap0326, rap0327, rap0362, rap0381, rap0393, rap0394, rap0396, rap0430, rap0431, rap0451, rap0452m, rap0453, rap0479, rap0769, rap0770, rap0857, rap1143, rap1159, rap1183, rap1186, rap1630m, rap1763, rap2170, rap2293, rap2480, rap2674 Comments: This association occurs fairly commonly on hot, dry southerly facing slopes. It is widespread throughout the study area in most of the subregions. It is perhaps most common in the upper elevation regions of the mountains where it tends to be restricted to very steep south-facing slopes. Phases: Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum (Laurel Sumac-California Buckwheat) Phase [21423] Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum-Artemisia californica/Annual Grass-Herb (Laurel Sumac-California Buckwheat-California Sagebrush/Annual Grass-Herb) Phase [3382]

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Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum-Heteromeles arbutifolia-Ceanothus megacarpus (Laurel Sumac-California Buckwheat-Toyon-Big Pod Ceanothus) Phase [3383] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Laurel Sumac-California Buckwheat Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Malosma laurina Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is known from the Santa Monica Mountains and from San Diego (Evens and San 2005) and western Riverside counties (Klein and Evens 2005). Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory, although it is likely to occur elsewhere in southern California below about 1,000 m. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: In the Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum Association, both species are codominant in the shrub overstory. Salvia apiana, Ceanothus leucodermis, Heteromeles arbutifolia, Baccharis pilularis, and Baccharis salicifolia are examples of species that may occur as shrubs at low cover. The understory herbaceous layer is variable and usually dominated by nonnative species such as Bromus madritensis, Avena fatua, Centaurea melitensis, and Hirschfeldia incana. Comments: This association appears to have fairly constant environmental and species characteristics in all places it has been sampled in southern California. References: Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005

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January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malosma laurina-Rhus ovata-Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Association Laurel Sumac-Sugar Bush-Big Pod Ceanothus Shrubland Association Malosma laurina Shrubland Alliance Laurel Sumac Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 21415 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep, usually south-facing slopes at low elevations between 156–694 m. It is dominated by Malosma laurina, and Rhus ovata and Ceanothus megacarpus are subdominant or sometimes codominant with Malosma. The herbaceous layer is relatively simple and infrequent with species such as Brassica nigra, Bromus, Marah macrocarpus, and/or Melica imperfecta. The tree layer is also sometimes present and includes Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Eastern Urban, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 156–694 m, mean 306 m Aspect: most often southwest and southeast, sometimes variable, and rarely northwest Slope: range 15–38 degrees, mean 33.0 degrees Topography (micro; macro): often undulating or flat, sometimes convex or concave; lower to upper slopes, rarely bottom or ridgetop Litter Cover: 55% (one sample) Small Rock Cover: range 5–30%, mean 17.5% Large Rock Cover: range 0–5%, mean 2.0% Bare Ground: range 15–32%, mean 23.7% Parent Material: frequently igneous and sedimentary, sometimes depositional or metamorphic Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy clay loam (one sample) Vegetation Description: Stands of Malosma laurina-Rhus ovata-Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (12–51%, mean 38.4%). Shrubs commonly occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0.5–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent (0–35%, mean 3.4%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–2% cover, mean 0.2%) hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 30–53%, mean cover is 41.6%. In this association, the shrub layer is dominated openly to intermittently by Malosma laurina, and Rhus ovata and Ceanothus megacarpus are subdominant or sometimes codominant with Malosma. Other species characteristically present but at low cover are Salvia mellifera and Adenostoma fasciculatum, while a variety of other chaparral or coastal sage scrub species may also be present at low cover such as Eriogonum fasciculatum and Heteromeles arbutifolia. The herbaceous layer is relatively simple and infrequent with species such as Brassica nigra, Bromus, Marah macrocarpus, and/or Melica imperfecta. Occasionally, emergent trees may occur including Quercus agrifolia.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malosma laurina-Rhus ovata-Ceanothus megacarpus Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub MALA6 RHOV CEME SAME3 ADFA ERFA2 HEAR5 ARCA11 NIGL BRCA3 MIAU CESP CEBE3 Herb BRNI

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

31

0.2

Malosma laurina Rhus ovata Ceanothus megacarpus Salvia mellifera Adenostoma fasciculatum Eriogonum fasciculatum Heteromeles arbutifolia Artemisia californica Nicotiana glauca Brickellia californica Mimulus aurantiacus Ceanothus spinosus Cercocarpus betuloides

100 15.3 3.0 31.0 X X 94 9.6 1.0 24.0 X 88 4.7 0.2 14.0 X 88 2.0 0.2 7.5 X 75 2.1 0.2 6.0 X 56 0.9 0.2 4.0 50 0.9 0.2 4.0 31 0.3 0.2 2.0 31 0.2 0.2 1.0 X 31 0.1 0.2 0.2 25 0.8 0.2 11.0 25 0.8 2.0 5.0 25 0.2 0.2 1.0

Brassica nigra

25

0.2

0.2

0.2

1.0

2.5

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 1 of 16 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Nicotiana glauca, Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Centaurea benedictus, Pennisetum setaceum, Senecio mikanioides Samples Used in Description: (n = 16) AA0159cc, AA0412, AA0589, AA0591, AA0640, AA0916, rap0374, rap0713, rap0735, rap0740, rap0831, rap0863, rap1172, rap1878m, rap2332, rap2721 Comments: None Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP

C1188-1/c

Laurel Sumac-Sugar Bush-Big Pod Ceanothus Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Malosma laurina Shrubland Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: None References: None

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459

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malosma laurina-Salvia mellifera Shrubland Association Laurel Sumac-Black Sage Shrubland Association Malosma laurina Shrubland Alliance Laurel Sumac Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2148 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep southeast- and southwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 17–756 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Malosma laurina and Salvia mellifera in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is generally insignificant. The emergent tree layer is generally absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Eastern Urban, Immediate Coast, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Western Fog Zone, Dry Inland, and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 17–756 m, mean 321.4 m Aspect: southeast and southwest Slope: range 15–40 degrees, mean 32 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); lower slope to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 15–35%, mean 25% Small Rock Cover: range 0–50%, mean 23.7% Large Rock Cover: range 0–5%, mean 1.3% Bare Ground: range 14–65%, mean 37.7% Parent Material: sedimentary or igneous Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Malosma laurina-Salvia mellifera Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (15–60%, mean 36.6%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–18%, mean 3.8%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are frequently emergent (0–10% cover, mean 0.6%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 16–62%, mean cover is 40.8%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Malosma laurina and Salvia mellifera. Eriogonum fasciculatum, Heteromeles arbutifolia, and Adenostoma fasciculatum are often included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and includes Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and may include Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Marah macrocarpus, and Bromus diandrus.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Malosma laurina-Salvia mellifera Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub MALA6 SAME3 ERFA2 HEAR5 ADFA RHOV YUWH ARCA11 ENCA CEME MAFA LOSC2 ERCI5

Malosma laurina Salvia mellifera Eriogonum fasciculatum Heteromeles arbutifolia Adenostoma fasciculatum Rhus ovata Yucca whipplei Artemisia californica Encelia californica Ceanothus megacarpus Malacothamnus fasciculatus Lotus scoparius Eriogonum cinereum

100 14.9 4.0 35.0 96 11.6 0.2 25.0 67 2.1 0.2 7.5 58 1.0 0.2 8.0 51 1.5 0.2 8.0 48 1.0 0.2 9.0 48 0.5 0.2 2.5 41 0.5 0.2 3.0 36 0.7 0.2 5.0 33 0.6 0.2 5.0 28 0.6 0.2 10.0 28 0.4 0.2 4.0 22 0.5 0.2 6.0

BRNI CEME2

Brassica nigra Centaurea melitensis

33 23

X X

Herb 0.5 0.5

0.2 0.2

6.0 8.0

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 5 of 69 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Leptodactylon californicum was found in 1 of 69 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G5T3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Avena, Bromus diandrus, Hirschfeldia incana, Pennisetum setaceum, Erodium, Nicotiana glauca, Marrubium vulgare, Euphorbia terracina, Avena fatua, Melilotus indicus, Bromus hordeaceus, Avena barbata, Erodium cicutarium, Eucalyptus, Foeniculum vulgare, Lobularia maritima, Raphanus sativus, Ricinus communis, Schinus molle, Silene gallica, Vinca major Samples Used in Description: (n = 69) AA0008cc, AA0022cc, AA0028cc, AA0035cc, AA0036cc, AA0069cc, AA0139cc, AA0147cc, AA0182cc, AA0207cc, AA0244cc, AA0271cc, AA0272cc, AA0305cc, AA0379cc, AA0403, AA0427, AA0454cc, AA0593, AA0723, AA0752, AA0790, AA0818, AA0839, AA0964, AA0980, AA0984, AA0993, AA1084, AA1117, AA1145, AA1149, AA1153, AA1160, rap0344, rap0349, rap0352, rap0564, rap0673, rap0800, rap0815, rap0840m, rap0887, rap0889, rap0912, rap0913, rap1035, rap1051, rap1056, rap1118, rap1126m, rap1164, rap1165, rap1178m, rap1233, rap1281m, rap1358, rap1372, rap1523, rap1627, rap1634, rap1705, rap1989, rap2169, rap2191, rap2216, rap2391, rap2799, rap2845

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461

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Comments: This is a common association and appears to be widespread throughout much of the study area on dry, hot exposures. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Laurel Sumac-Black Sage Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Malosma laurina Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

61Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4?

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. It is also likely throughout south coastal California evidenced by the similar descriptions of types in Riverside and San Diego counties (Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: In the Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Association described from western Riverside County by Klein and Evens (2005) and from San Diego County by Evens and San (2005), all three shrubs are usually codominant. Other chaparral and coastal sage species that are characteristically present at low cover include Heteromeles arbutifolia, Artemisia californica, Adenostoma fasciculatum, and Yucca whipplei. The herbaceous layer, which includes a variety of native and nonnative species, is usually dominated by Bromus madritensis. Comments: We suggest merging this association with the Malosma laurina-Eriogonum fasciculatum-Salvia mellifera Association of Klein and Evens (2005) and Evens and San (2005). The frequency of Eriogonum fasciculatum in the SAMO samples is 67%, high enough to be considered an adequate constancy by most standards. References: Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005

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462

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Mesembryanthemum spp.-Carpobrotus spp. Seminatural Shrubland Alliance Ice Plant Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 4720 Local Description Summary: This shrubland alliance occurs on abrupt to steep slopes with northeast aspect at low elevations between 2–46 m. It is dominated by the sprawling Carpobrotus edulis in the low shrub layer. The emergent tree layer includes occasional nonnative species such as Schinus molle and Pinus sp. Distribution: This alliance is sampled in the Immediate Coast and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 2–46 m, mean 17.6 m Aspect: northeast Slope: range 2–85 degrees, mean 28.5 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat or undulating; slope bottom to upper slope Litter Cover: range 15–65%, mean 40% Small Rock Cover: range 2–20%, mean 9.8% Large Rock Cover: range 0–50%, mean 12.5% Bare Ground: range 12–80%, mean 44.3% Parent Material: quaternary or sedimentary Soil Texture: sand to very fine loamy sand Vegetation Description: Stands of this shrubland alliance form an open shrub layer (7–20%, mean 12%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–1 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–2 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent (13–40%, mean 26.2%) at 0.1–0.5 m tall. Trees are very occasionally emergent (0–0.4% cover, mean 0.66%) with conifers at 1–10 m and hardwoods at 0–5 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 23–51%, mean cover is 38.2%. In this association, the shrub layer often includes Artemisia californica and Encelia californica. Rhus integrifolia, Isocoma menziesii, and Coreopsis gigantea are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and infrequently includes Schinus molle and Pinus sp. at very low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and is characterized by Carpobrotus edulis. Other herbs sometimes include Ambrosia chamissonis, Marah macrocarpus, Leymus condensatus, Brassica nigra, and Distichlis spicata. Mesembryanthemum crystallinum is occasionally present.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Mesembryanthemum spp.-Carpobrotus spp. Seminatural Herbaceous Alliance Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ARCA11 ENCA RHIN2 ISME5 COGI ERER11 LOSC2 BAPI OPLI3 MYLA5 MALA6 MILA6 NIGL

Artemisia californica Encelia californica Rhus integrifolia Isocoma menziesii Coreopsis gigantea Ericameria ericoides Lotus scoparius Baccharis pilularis Opuntia littoralis Myoporum laetum Malosma laurina Mirabilis laevis Nicotiana glauca

67 67 50 50 50 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33

1.9 1.7 1.2 0.7 0.4 1.7 0.7 0.5 0.5 0.3 0.2 0.1 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 2.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2

CAED3 AMCH4 BRNI DISP LECO12 MAMA8

Carpobrotus edulis Ambrosia chamissonis Brassica nigra Distichlis spicata Leymus condensatus Marah macrocarpus

100 22.0 10.0 33 0.4 0.2 33 0.3 1.0 33 0.2 0.2 33 0.2 0.2 33 0.1 0.2

6.0 6.0 7.0 3.0 1.0 8.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 1.0 1.0 0.2 0.2

X

X

Herb 40.0 X X X 2.0 1.0 X 1.0 1.0 0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: Abronia umbellata was found in 1 of 6 surveys of this plant community, which is Abronia umbellata spp. umbellata. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare (SAMO 2004). There is no state or global rank of this subspecies (CNPS 2005). Nonnative Species: Carpobrotus edulis, Brassica nigra, Myoporum laetum, Nicotiana glauca, Melilotus indicus, Ricinus communis, Bromus madritensis, Conyza canadensis, Anagallis arvensis, Atriplex semibaccata, Bromus diandrus, Bromus hordeaceus, Cakile maritima, Carpobrotus chilensis, Erodium, Foeniculum vulgare, Lamarckia aurea, Melilotus, Mesembryanthemum crystallinum, Nerium oleander, Pennisetum setaceum, Rumex crispus, Salsola tragus, Schinus molle, Sonchus Samples Used in Description: (n = 6) AA0672, rap0640, rap0648, rap1028, rap2777, rap2890rlv Comments: This is a widespread introduced vegetation type along the coast of California. It may be composed of one or more species of Mesembryanthemum or Carpobrotus. The most widespread species in the SAMO study area is Carpobrotus edulis. This is an invasive species that sprawls over dunes and coastal bluffs, smothering and shading out native species such as Coreopsis gigantea, Ericameria ericoides, Ambrosia chamissonis, and other native herbaceous species.

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464

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE

CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Ice Plant Herbaceous Alliance None V. Herbaceous vegetation V.B. Perennial forb vegetation V.B.2. Temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation V.B.2.N. Natural/Seminatural temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation V.B.2.N.b. Low temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation Mesembryanthemum spp.-Carpobrotus spp. Seminatural Herbaceous Alliance Shrubland Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S5—This is an introduced alliance that usually strongly dominates the landscape to the exclusion of other native species.

Global Description Distribution: Ice plant mats occur along the northern, central, and southern California coasts, the Central Valley, and on the Channel Islands. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Northern California coast (263A)—Carpobrotus edulis is the most common invader of dune habitats and is widespread on most dune systems. Central California coast (261B)—Mesembryanthemum sp. and Carpobrotus edulis are both common on dune systems. Southern California coast (261B)—Mesembryanthemum sp. and Carpobrotus edulis are both common on dune systems. On the Channel Islands, Mesembryanthemum sp. crowded out many native herbaceous and subshrub stands especially on the northern Channel Islands. Salt buildup from the leaves has effectively changed the soil chemistry of some of these stands and effectively excludes native species from recolonizing (Vivrette and Muller 1977). Great Valley (262A)—Stands occur in Suisun marsh and in other delta areas of the SacramentoSan Joaquin delta (Keeler-Wolf et al. 2000). Environmental Description: Occurs on bluffs and disturbed land and sand dunes of the immediate coastline from sea level to 100 m elevation.

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465

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Vegetation Description: Carpobrotus, Mesembryanthemum sp., or Malephora crocea is the sole or dominant herb in the ground canopy; Abronia latifolia, Ambrosia chamissonis, Eriogonum latifolium, and/or Poa douglasii may be present. Emergent shrubs may be present. Herbs are less than 50 cm; canopy is continuous. Comments: This treatment is broadly defined to recognize the importance of these introduced species in California's vegetation. The invasive character of several taxa in the Aizoaceae family is well appreciated in California, especially on coastal dune habitats. Three genera are included in this series. The Jepson Manual includes five taxa in the genera Carpobrotus, Malephora, and Mesembryanthemum as having naturalized in the state. These taxa have historically been placed in Mesembryanthemum but are now referred to as Carpobrotus chilensis, C. edulis, Malephora crocea, Mesembryanthemum crystallinum, and M. nodiflorum. All are invasive and replace native dune species, particularly members of the Ambrosia chamissonis and Lupinus chamissonisEricameria ericoides alliances. Widely planted as a soil binder on embankments and as ornamental in coastal districts (Prescott and Venning 1984), ice plants (especially Carpobrotus edulis) can form impenetrable mats that crowd out other species. For years, local southern California fire departments have recommended ice plant to people with houses in fire-prone areas. Ice plant is also often used to control erosion. However, during years with a lot of rain, the succulent ice plant swells with water and can cause entire slopes to slide from the increased weight. Carpobrotus edulis is considered one of the most invasive wildland plants in California by the California Exotic Plants Pest Council (CalEPPC List of Exotic Pest Plants of Greatest Ecological Concern 2002 http://www.caleppc.org/info/99lista.html). Ice plant stands are being removed to restore native vegetation on the coastal dunes and enhance populations of rare species (Pickart and Sawyer 1998). Removal of these species is time consuming by hand-pulling (large mats can be removed by rolling them up like a carpet) and yet is easier and more cost-effective than removal of Ammophila arenaria (Albert 1996). Many California state park and national park lands along the coast are actively removing ice plant and replacing it with native dune species such as members of the Ambrosia chamissonis and Lupinus chamissonis-Ericameria ericoides alliances. References: Albert 1996, Hickman 1993, Keeler-Wolf and Vaghti 2000, Pickart and Sawyer 1998, Prescott and Venning 1984, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Vivrette and Muller 1977

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466

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Mimulus aurantiacus Shrubland Association Bush Monkey Flower Shrubland Association Mimulus aurantiacus Shrubland Alliance Bush Monkey Flower Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2172 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep northeast and northwest slopes at low elevations between 43–571 m. It is characterized by a strong dominance of Mimulus aurantiacus in the shrub layer. It has a presence of Leymus condensatus in most stands in the herbaceous layer, though this species is not considered characteristic. The emergent tree layer is usually absent but may include Juglans californica, Eucalyptus sp., Pinus sp., Quercus agrifolia, and Platanus racemosa. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Eastern Urban, Immediate Coast, and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 43–571 m, mean 297 m Aspect: northeast and northwest Slope: range 15–40 degrees, mean 31.1 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); lower slope to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 5–75%, mean 38.8% Small Rock Cover: range 2–25%, mean 14.3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–8%, mean 1.7% Bare Ground: range 10–35%, mean 21.7% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: coarse loamy sand to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Mimulus aurantiacus Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (13–63%, mean 43.6%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–22%, mean 3.6%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–6% cover, mean 1.3%) with conifers at 0–10 m tall and hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 32–70%, mean cover is 48.1%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Mimulus aurantiacus, Artemisia californica, and Malosma laurina. Salvia leucophylla, Toxicodendron diversilobum, and Sambucus mexicana are usually included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may include Juglans californica and Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and often includes Leymus condensatus. Other herbs may include Melica imperfecta, Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, and Bromus madritensis.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Mimulus aurantiacus Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub MIAU ARCA11 MALA6 SALE3 TODI SAME5 HEAR5 BAPI ERCI5 SAME3 CEME CESP RHIN2 CEBE3 RHOV YUWH MAFA

Mimulus aurantiacus Artemisia californica Malosma laurina Salvia leucophylla Toxicodendron diversilobum Sambucus mexicana Heteromeles arbutifolia Baccharis pilularis Eriogonum cinereum Salvia mellifera Ceanothus megacarpus Ceanothus spinosus Rhus integrifolia Cercocarpus betuloides Rhus ovata Yucca whipplei Malacothamnus fasciculatus

100 22.4 7.0 46.0 87 1.8 0.2 8.0 78 4.4 0.2 15.0 65 3.0 0.2 18.0 52 1.1 0.2 10.0 52 0.6 0.2 3.0 43 1.3 0.2 5.0 43 0.7 0.2 7.0 39 1.1 0.2 6.0 39 1.1 0.2 8.0 26 0.9 1.0 7.0 26 0.3 0.2 3.0 22 1.7 2.0 18.0 22 0.8 0.2 8.0 22 0.2 0.2 3.0 22 0.2 0.2 2.5 22 0.2 0.2 2.5

LECO12 MEIM CEME2

Leymus condensatus Melica imperfecta Centaurea melitensis

65 22 22

X X X

Herb 1.8 0.4 0.3

0.2 12.0 0.2 7.0 0.2 4.0

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 23 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Calochortus plummerae was found in 1 of 23 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 3 of 23 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus madritensis, Nicotiana glauca, Foeniculum vulgare, Eucalyptus, Conium maculatum, Carduus pycnocephalus, Brassica nigra, Marrubium vulgare, Phalaris aquatica, Piptatherum miliaceum, Silybum marianum, Stellaria media

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468

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Samples Used in Description: (n = 23) AA0020cc, AA0555, AA0942, AA0946, rap0092, rap0095, rap0289, rap0486, rap0837, rap1188, rap1260, rap1666, rap1674, rap1864, rap1905, rap1907, rap1910, rap1985, rap2272m, rap2441, rap2495, rap2509, rap2808 Comments: This is the first time Mimulus aurantiacus has been identified at the alliance level in California. These stands are so heavily dominated by this species that there is little doubt that this is a distinct type. However, it is generally related to other coastal sage scrub alliances. It appears on generally steep, often somewhat unstable slopes in relatively mesic settings within the general vicinity of stands of Artemisia californica and Salvia leucophylla alliances. It also appears to be closely associated with recent burns in many cases and often occurs adjacent to stands of Quercus agrifolia woodland. In some cases, this type also appears to be associated with natural ground disturbance such as rockslides. Two phases have been described that have relatively higher cover of either Malosma laurina or Salvia leucophylla. Phases: Mimulus aurantiacus-Malosma laurina (Bush Monkey Flower-Laurel Sumac) Phase [2172] Mimulus aurantiacus-Salvia leucophylla (Bush Monkey Flower-Purple Sage) Phase [2171] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Bush Monkey Flower Shrubland Association None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.5. Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland III.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.5.N.b. Facultatively deciduous, extremely xeromorphic Mimulus aurantiacus Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. The alliance is likely to occur throughout much of cismontane central and southern California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: Small stands of this alliance have been seen as far north as Contra Costa County (Keeler-Wolf 2005, personal observation). These also occur on steep slopes and include Artemisia californica. ` References: None

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470

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Opuntia spp.-Mixed Coastal Sage Scrub Shrubland Association Coast Prickly Pear-Mixed Coastal Sage Scrub Shrubland Association Opuntia spp. Shrubland Alliance Coast Prickly Pear Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2412 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep southeast- and southwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 10–310 m. It is characterized by a dominance of Opuntia spp. (primarily O. littoralis, but occasionally O. oricola or both) in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is generally composed of a variety of nonnative species at low cover. The emergent tree layer is usually absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone, Dry Inland, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Hills Inland, and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 10–310 m, mean 175.6 m Aspect: southeast and southwest Slope: range 15–40 degrees, mean 26.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): convex, flat, or undulating; lower slope to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 15–55%, mean 28.6% Small Rock Cover: range 2–50%, mean 17.5% Large Rock Cover: range 0–70%, mean 7.6% Bare Ground: range 0–75%, mean 33.9% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: fine clay to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Opuntia spp.-Mixed Coastal Sage Scrub Shrubland form an open continuous shrub layer (14–67%, mean 39%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–27%, mean 6%) at 0–2 m tall. Trees are frequently emergent (0–8% cover, mean 0.7%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 21–75%, mean cover is 45.5%. In this association, the shrub layer usually contains Opuntia littoralis and Eriogonum fasciculatum. Artemisia californica, Yucca whipplei, Rhus integrifolia, and Encelia californica are usually included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Schinus molle and Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus madritensis, Brassica nigra, Melica imperfecta, Dudleya pulverulenta, and Nassella pulchra.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Opuntia spp.-Mixed Coastal Sage Scrub Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub OPLI3 ERFA2 ARCA11 YUWH ENCA RHIN2 OPOR MALA6 SAME5 LOSC2 ERCI5 MIAU BAPI SAME3 OPPR

Opuntia littoralis Eriogonum fasciculatum Artemisia californica Yucca whipplei Encelia californica Rhus integrifolia Opuntia oricola Malosma laurina Sambucus mexicana Lotus scoparius Eriogonum cinereum Mimulus aurantiacus Baccharis pilularis Salvia mellifera Opuntia prolifera

73 73 60 52 50 50 43 40 35 32 30 28 28 25 22

15.1 3.9 2.9 0.7 1.6 1.3 4.0 1.7 0.6 0.3 0.9 1.1 0.3 1.0 0.6

5.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

52.0 X 15.0 17.0 5.0 15.0 15.0 25.0 21.0 7.5 2.5 8.0 15.0 5.0 22.0 7.0

HIIN3 BRMA3 NASSE MEIM BRNI

Hirschfeldia incana Bromus madritensis Nassella Melica imperfecta Brassica nigra

32 28 22 20 20

0.3 0.7 0.5 0.9 0.1

0.2 5.0 0.2 8.0 0.2 7.5 0.2 10.0 0.2 1.0

Herb X X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 40 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Eriogonum crocatum was found in 2 of 40 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G2, and state rank is S2.1 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is Rare (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus madritensis, Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Foeniculum vulgare, Schinus molle, Carduus pycnocephalus, Avena, Bromus hordeaceus, Avena fatua, Nicotiana glauca, Cirsium vulgare, Erodium, Lactuca serriola, Marrubium vulgare, Pennisetum setaceum, Anagallis arvensis, Conyza canadensis, Cortaderia, Erodium cicutarium, Galium aparine, Ricinus communis, Silene gallica, Sonchus oleraceus, Vicia villosa Samples Used in Description: (n = 40) AA0003cc, AA0255cc, AA0283cc, AA0332, AA0382cc, AA0423, AA0613, AA0630, AA0679, rap0072, rap0090, rap1097, rap1129, rap1204m, rap1427, rap1428, rap1454, rap1757m, rap1758, rap1759, rap1760, rap1761, rap1767m, rap1831, rap2226, rap2251, rap2373, rap2492, rap2600, rap2648, rap2668, rap2695, rap2740, rap2746, rap2817, rap2863rlv, rap2899, rap2900, rap2901, rap2929

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Comments: This association describes the local succulent-dominated scrub. Difficulty in identifying the difference between Opuntia littoralis (and hybrids) from O. oricola (and hybrids) through binoculars has led to the nonspecific naming of the association. As a general rule, it appeared that the densest stands were dominated by O. littoralis and the more open stands often contained more O. oricola. Nassella pulchra, although not often found in mixed stands with shrubs, was sometimes seen in this type. Certain stands appear to have higher frequency of Opuntia prolifera (coastal cholla), although these did not segregate from the main cluster of samples in the quantitative analysis. The best and densest stands of this association occur on the northwestern portion of the study area usually on Conejo volcanics. These thickets are not to be taken lightly when considered for sampling. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Coast Prickly Pear-Mixed Coastal Sage Scrub Shrubland Association Maritime Succulent Scrub (in part) (Holland 1996) Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Succulent extremely xeromorphic evergreen shrubland Opuntia littoralis Shrubland Alliance 2 (Hybrids and uncertain identification of key species beyond subgenus level)

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution are not available without additional inventory. Other similar stands of maritime cactus scrub occur south and east through the western Los Angeles Basin to San Diego County. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Comments: These stands dominated by playtopuntias (either Opuntia littoralis or O. oricola) are not to be confused with the stands of more Baja California floristic affinities that occur in San Diego County and on some of the southern Channel Islands. The local stands provide excellent habitat for the coastal cactus wren. These stands are placed in the O. littoralis Alliance (c.f., Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995) despite the uncertainty of some of the Opuntia species in some of the stands. References: Holland 1986, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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474

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Prunus ilicifolia-Heteromeles arbutifolia Shrubland Association Holly Leaf Cherry-Toyon Shrubland Association Prunus ilicifolia Shrubland Alliance Holly Leaf Cherry Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2121 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep northeast- and northwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 281–667 m. It is characterized by a dominance or codominance of Prunus ilicifolia along with Heteromeles arbutifolia in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer may have native grasses, such as Leymus condensatus and Melica imperfecta, at low cover. The emergent tree layer includes Umbellularia californica and Quercus agrifolia at low cover in some of the stands. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Hills Inland, Immediate Coast, and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 281–667 m., mean 475 m Aspect: northeast and northwest Slope: range 15–45 degrees, mean 32.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating; bottom to upper slope Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: range 5–5%, mean 5% Large Rock Cover: range 0–6%, mean 3% Bare Ground: range 5–15%, mean 10% Parent Material: sedimentary or igneous Soil Texture: medium loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Prunus ilicifolia-Heteromeles arbutifolia Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (15–61%, mean 38.9%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent (0–40%, mean 5.6%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–32% cover, mean 4.5%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 32–65%, mean cover is 48.4%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Prunus ilicifolia and Heteromeles arbutifolia. Cercocarpus betuloides, Mimulus aurantiacus, Ceanothus oliganthus, and Toxicodendron diversilobum are frequently included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may include Umbellularia californica and Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Melica imperfecta, Leymus condensatus, and Hirschfeldia incana.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Prunus ilicifolia-Heteromeles arbutifolia Association Layer Code Tree Overstory UMCA-T QUAG-T Shrub PRIL HEAR5 CEBE3 MIAU CEOL TODI RHOV ADFA MALA6 CECR KECO CESP Herb MEIM LECO12

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Umbellularia californica Quercus agrifolia

55 27

1.0 0.7

Prunus ilicifolia Heteromeles arbutifolia Cercocarpus betuloides Mimulus aurantiacus Ceanothus oliganthus Toxicodendron diversilobum Rhus ovata Adenostoma fasciculatum Malosma laurina Ceanothus crassifolius Keckiella cordifolia Ceanothus spinosus

100 14.0 4.0 28.0 X X 100 7.1 1.0 18.0 X 73 4.3 3.0 16.0 64 1.0 0.2 3.0 55 2.5 1.0 11.0 55 0.6 0.2 3.0 45 2.2 1.0 15.0 45 0.7 1.0 3.0 45 0.3 0.2 2.0 36 1.5 0.2 7.0 36 0.2 0.2 1.0 27 1.2 0.2 10.0

Melica imperfecta Leymus condensatus

36 27

3.8 0.2

0.2 1.0

6.0 X 5.0

0.2 40.0 0.2 2.0

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 1 of 11 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Hirschfeldia incana, Avena, Centaurea melitensis, Carduus pycnocephalus, Centaurea solstitialis, Piptatherum miliaceum, Spartium junceum Samples Used in Description: (n = 11) AA0770, rap0553m, rap2229m, rap2324, rap2365, rap2402, rap2413, rap2422, rap2426, rap2624, rap2638 Comments: This is one of the most mesic of the local chaparral associations. It tends to occur at higher elevations and only on northerly facing slopes, especially in narrow gorges or rock crevasses. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUB GROUP

C1188-1/c

Holly Leaf Cherry-Toyon Shrubland Association Toyon-Holly Leaf Cherry Alliance (Borchert et al. 2004) Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural

476

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Prunus ilicifolia Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: Central and south coast (including Santa Barbara, Ventura, and western Riverside counties), peninsular ranges (including western Riverside County: San Jacinto foothills, San Diego County: western foothills) Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: Based on the western Riverside County description of Klein and Evens 2005, the following additional information may be provided on the environmental definition of this association: Elevation is usually below 1,000 m. Aspect is usually north-facing, and slopes are moderate to somewhat steep. Topography is usually concave, mid to upper slopes. Rock cover is relatively high in most stands, derived from granite, sedimentary, or metamorphic parent material. Soil texture is usually sandy loam to loam. Vegetation Description: This association has been described by Klein and Evens 2005 from western Riverside County. The following description is excerpted from their study: In the Prunus ilicifolia-Heteromeles arbutifolia Association, Prunus ilicifolia dominates or codominates in the overstory shrub layer, and Heteromeles arbutifolia is present at low cover. A variety of other species may intermix as subdominant shrubs, such as Eriogonum fasciculatum, Toxicodendron diversilobum, Keckiella antirrhinoides, Adenostoma fasciculatum, Salvia apiana, and Salvia mellifera. Bowlesia incana, Marah macrocarpus, Muhlenbergia rigens, Leymus condensatus, and nonnative Bromus madritensis are examples of species that may occur in the herb layer. This association has also been described from San Diego County (Evens and San 2005) with similar characteristics. Comments: Elsewhere Prunus ilicifolia stands may reach great age and become semiarborescent (sensu mainland cherry stands Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995). Most of the SAMO stands appear to have burned in the relatively recent past and are multistemmed. Borchert et al. 2004 describe this same vegetation type as a Prunus ilicifolia-Heteromeles arbutifolia Alliance, and they separate it from two other similar alliances: the Ceanothus megacarpus-Prunus ilicifolia Alliance and the Cercocarpus betuloides-Prunus ilicifolia Alliance. All three of these mixed alliances will be treated by Sawyer et al. (2006 MS) as a part of the Prunus ilicifolia Alliance, which allows for codominance of other species with P. ilicifolia. The rationale behind this involves similar mesic

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

conditions for all of these and, apparently, low variance within each one of these types not requiring further differentiation into alliances but into associations of the Prunus ilicifolia Alliance. References: Borchert et al. 2004, Evens and San 2005, Klein and Evens 2005, Sawyer et al. 2006 MS

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478

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus berberidifolia Shrubland Association Scrub Oak Shrubland Association Quercus berberidifolia Shrubland Alliance Scrub Oak Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2161 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to very steep northwest- and northeast-facing slopes at low to middle elevations between 119–783 m. It is characterized by strong dominance of Quercus berberidifolia in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is sparse and has no characteristic species. The emergent tree layer includes Quercus agrifolia in some stands. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Dry Inland, Eastern Urban, and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 119–783 m, mean 342.2 m Aspect: northwest and northeast Slope: range 1–55 degrees, mean 23.6 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); bottom to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 50–80%, mean 68.3% Small Rock Cover: range 0–30%, mean 6.6% Large Rock Cover: range 0–80%, mean 3.4% Bare Ground: range 0–42%, mean 15.3% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: coarse loamy sand to fine clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus berberidifolia Shrubland form an open to continuous shrub layer (8–70%, mean 51.1%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–5 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–10 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent (0–48%, mean 3%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–24% cover, mean 2.1%) with conifers at 0–10 m tall and hardwoods at 0–15 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 15–78%, mean cover is 55.7%. In this association, the shrub layer is dominated by Quercus berberidifolia. Heteromeles arbutifolia also often occurs in the shrub layer. Other shrubs occasionally include Adenostoma fasciculatum, Rhus ovata, Salvia leucophylla, Ceanothus spinosus, Toxicodendron diversilobum, and Malosma laurina. The tree layer is emergent and open and sometimes includes Quercus agrifolia, Juglans californica, and Quercus lobata at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Marah macrocarpus, Hemizonia fasciculata, Melica imperfecta, and Hirschfeldia incana.

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus berberidifolia Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub QUBE5 HEAR5 ADFA RHOV SALE3 CESP TODI CEBE3 MALA6 ARCA11 SAME5 Herb CEME2

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

31

0.9

Quercus berberidifolia Heteromeles arbutifolia Adenostoma fasciculatum Rhus ovata Salvia leucophylla Ceanothus spinosus Toxicodendron diversilobum Cercocarpus betuloides Malosma laurina Artemisia californica Sambucus mexicana

100 35.0 3.0 68.0 78 3.5 0.2 13.0 56 3.2 1.0 25.0 46 1.3 0.2 15.0 37 0.8 0.2 9.0 30 0.7 0.2 7.0 26 0.5 0.2 10.0 22 0.6 0.2 7.0 22 0.4 0.2 3.0 20 0.4 0.2 7.0 20 0.2 0.2 2.5

Centaurea melitensis

31

0.4

0.2 10.0

0.2

6.0

X X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Baccharis malibuensis was found in 1 of 54 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 3-3-3. Global rank is G1, and state rank is S1.1 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 54 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 1 of 54 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Bromus diandrus, Bromus madritensis, Brassica nigra, Hirschfeldia incana, Avena, Avena fatua, Bromus hordeaceus, Marrubium vulgare, Nicotiana glauca, Stellaria media, Carduus pycnocephalus, Eucalyptus, Galium aparine, Robinia, Schinus molle, Spartium junceum, Anagallis arvensis, Centaurea solstitialis, Conium maculatum, Conyza canadensis, Erodium cicutarium, Foeniculum vulgare, Melilotus, Melilotus indicus, Phoenix canariensis, Piptatherum miliaceum, Salsola tragus, Senecio argutus Samples Used in Description: (n = 54) AA0021cc, AA0040cc, AA0085cc, AA0086cc, AA0087cc, AA0399cc, AA0471cc, AA0756cc, AA0975, AA0994, AA1011, AA1094, AA1134, AA1179, rap0248, rap0291, rap0298, rap0299, rap0306, rap0336, rap0337, rap0340, rap0454, rap0461m, rap0505, rap0602, rap0830, rap1583, rap1621, rap1633, rap1637, rap1640m, rap1792, rap1826, rap1897m, rap1899, rap1915, rap2002, rap2004, rap2153, rap2155, rap2195, rap2210, rap2241, rap2316, rap2377, rap2445, rap2679, rap2687, rap2815, rap2832, rap2835, rap2843, rap2912

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Comments: This association is a common mesic chaparral locally and has been found in many other parts of central and southern California. It is easily distinguished from the related Q. berberidifoliaCeanothus spinosus Association and the Q. berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides Association. In this association, Q. berberidifolia usually forms a dense cover, with neither C. betuloides nor C. spinosus even approaching codominance. Additional phases have been identified with relatively higher cover of either Heteromeles arbutifolia or Adenostoma fasciculatum. However, both of these species tend to remain as subdominants to Q. berberidifolia. Phases: Quercus berberidifolia-Adenostoma fasciculatum (Scrub Oak-Chamise) Phase [2163] Quercus berberidifolia-Heteromeles arbutifolia (Scrub Oak Toyon) Phase [2164] Quercus berberidifolia (Scrub Oak) Phase [2161] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Scrub Oak Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Quercus berberidifolia Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is known from the Santa Monica Mountains as well as San Diego County (Evens and San 2005), Riverside County (Klein and Evens 2005), other parts of the eastern transverse and peninsular ranges (Gordon and White 1994), and north and westward to the northern range districts of the Los Padres National Forest (Borchert et al. 2004). It is likely that the same association occurs north well into the central and inner northern coast ranges (Thorne et al. 2004, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: Additional information summary from Klein and Evens (2005) for the Q. berberidifolia Alliance follows: Elevation is below 1,500 m. Aspect is usually northerly and less often southerly. It is found on moderate to steep slopes, and topography is variable. Ground cover especially contains a

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

moderate to high litter content. Parent material is more often sedimentary, less often granitic, metamorphic, gabbro-diorite, or metavolcanic. Soil texture varies from loamy sand to clay. Vegetation Description: Quercus berberidifolia is the sole dominant shrub in the intermittent to continuous shrub layer. A variety of other chaparral, coastal sage, and desert shrub species may be present, the most common being Adenostoma fasciculatum, Salvia mellifera, Heteromeles arbutifolia, Rhamnus crocea, and Eriogonum fasciculatum. The most common herb species include nonnative annuals Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus diandrus, Bromus madritensis, or Bromus tectorum, though natives such as Marah macrocarpus and Paeonia californica are also usually present (Klein and Evens 2005, Evens and San 2005). Comments: There may be some minor local variation in this widespread association based on locally distributed, low-constancy species. Sufficient sampling has yet to be done in the northern part of its range. References: Borchert et al. 2004, Evens and San 2005, Gordon and White 1994, Klein and Evens 2005, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Thorne et al. 2004

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January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus berberidifolia-Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland Association Scrub Oak-Greenbark Ceanothus Shrubland Association Quercus berberidifolia Shrubland Alliance Scrub Oak Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2167 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 230–563 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Quercus berberidifolia and Ceanothus spinosus in the shrub layer. The simple herbaceous layer often has the vine Marah macrocarpa. The emergent tree layer occasionally includes Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 230–563 m, mean 429.4 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 15–35 degrees, mean 26 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat or undulating; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: range 3–15%, mean 7.3% Large Rock Cover: range 0–2%, mean 1% Bare Ground: range 10–20%, mean 13% Parent Material: sedimentary, igneous, metamorphic, and quaternary Soil Texture: coarse loamy sand to moderately fine silty clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus berberidifolia-Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland form an intermittent to continuous shrub layer (41–65%, mean 56.3%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–33%, mean 3.9%) at 0–0.5 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–5% cover, mean 1%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 45–65%, mean cover is 59.3%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Quercus berberidifolia, Ceanothus spinosus, Heteromeles arbutifolia, and Adenostoma fasciculatum. Rhus ovata, Cercocarpus betuloides, Malosma laurina, Rhamnus ilicifolia, and Salvia mellifera are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may occasionally include Quercus agrifolia and Umbellularia californica at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Marah macrocarpus, Bromus madritensis, Centaurea melitensis, Piptatherum miliaceum, and Stellaria media.

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483

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus berberidifolia-Ceanothus spinosus Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub QUBE5 CESP HEAR5 ADFA RHOV CEBE3 MALA6 RHIL SAME3 PRIL Herb MAMA8 BRMA3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

33

0.6

Quercus berberidifolia Ceanothus spinosus Heteromeles arbutifolia Adenostoma fasciculatum Rhus ovata Cercocarpus betuloides Malosma laurina Rhamnus ilicifolia Salvia mellifera Prunus ilicifolia

100 22.6 8.0 40.0 X X 100 16.8 10.0 25.0 X X 92 4.8 0.2 14.0 X 75 4.3 0.2 12.0 X 50 1.1 0.2 6.0 42 0.9 0.2 5.0 33 0.1 0.2 1.0 25 0.1 0.2 1.0 25 0.1 0.2 1.0 25 0.1 0.2 0.2

Marah macrocarpus Bromus madritensis

42 25

0.7 0.2

1.0

0.2 0.2

3.0

3.0 2.0

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 1 of 12 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus madritensis, Centaurea melitensis, Stellaria media, Piptatherum miliaceum, Ailanthus altissima, Bromus diandrus, Anagallis arvensis, Brassica nigra, Galium aparine, Hirschfeldia incana, Sonchus oleraceus Samples Used in Description: (n = 12) AA1171, rap0244, rap0290m, rap0535m, rap0559m, rap1552, rap1553, rap1589, rap1590, rap1639m, rap2256m, rap2663 Comments: This is an endemic association to the western transverse ranges, probably centered in the Santa Monica Mountains. It differs from the related Ceanothus spinosus Alliance by having dominance to codominance of Q. berberidifolia. It stands to reason that these two shrub species would comingle because both are mesophytic and resprout after fire. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP

C1188-1/c

Scrub Oak-Greenbark Ceanothus Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural

484

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Quercus berberidifolia Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

C1188-1/c

485

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus berberidifolia-Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Association Scrub Oak-Chamise-Shrubland Association Quercus berberidifolia-Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance Scrub Oak-Chamise Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2581 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 299–764 m. It is dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum and Quercus berberidifolia in the shrub layer with a sparse herbaceous layer. The emergent tree layer includes Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Hills Inland, and Eastern Urban regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 299–764 m, mean 451 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–40 degrees, mean 19.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat, undulating, concave, or convex; mid slope to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 35–35%, mean 35% Small Rock Cover: range 5–45%, mean 22.7% Large Rock Cover: range 0–12%, mean 3.7% Bare Ground: range 10–38%, mean 21.9% Parent Material: sedimentary or igneous, occasionally quaternary Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy to silty clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Adenostoma fasciculatum-Quercus berberidifolia Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (20–55%, mean 42.5%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–18%, mean 2.2%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–3% cover, mean 0.2%) with hardwoods at 0–15 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 20–55%, mean cover is 44.9%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Adenostoma fasciculatum and Quercus berberidifolia. Salvia mellifera and Heteromeles arbutifolia are usually included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Marah macrocarpus, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, and Nassella lepida.

C1188-1/c

486

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus berberidifolia-Adenostoma fasciculatum Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub ADFA QUBE5 SAME3 HEAR5 MALA6 YUWH LOSC2 RHOV ARGL3 CESP CEME ERFA2 CEBE3 SALE3 ARCA11 Herb MAMA8

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

20

0.1

Adenostoma fasciculatum Quercus berberidifolia Salvia mellifera Heteromeles arbutifolia Malosma laurina Yucca whipplei Lotus scoparius Rhus ovata Arctostaphylos glandulosa Ceanothus spinosus Ceanothus megacarpus Eriogonum fasciculatum Cercocarpus betuloides Salvia leucophylla Artemisia californica

100 24.0 6.0 44.0 X X 100 7.2 1.0 12.0 X 60 2.5 0.2 15.0 55 1.2 0.2 6.0 50 0.9 0.2 4.0 45 0.5 0.2 4.0 40 0.8 0.2 7.0 40 0.3 0.2 2.0 30 1.4 0.2 9.0 30 0.5 0.2 3.0 30 0.3 0.2 3.0 25 0.4 0.2 7.0 25 0.4 0.2 5.0 25 0.4 0.2 3.0 20 0.2 0.2 4.0

Marah macrocarpus

25

0.1

0.2

0.2

1.0

1.0

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus plummerae was found in 1 of 20 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 1 of 20 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Avena fatua, Avena, Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Bromus hordeaceus, Eucalyptus, Schinus molle Samples Used in Description: (n = 20) AA0312cc, AA0636, rap0264, rap0268, rap0275, rap0331, rap0503m, rap0858, rap1636, rap1986, rap2070, rap2097, rap2194m, rap2233, rap2240, rap2351, rap2417, rap2587, rap2664, rap2792 Comments: Stands of this association in the Santa Monica Mountains tend to be dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum with a lower cover (on the average less than half as much) of Q. berberidifolia. This is in contrast to stands described by Gordon and White 1994, Borchert et al. 2004, Evens and San 2005, and Klein and Evens 2005 where both species codominate usually at > 20% cover each. Because many species are shared and the environmental conditions are similar, we

C1188-1/c

487

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

decided to maintain a conservative approach to naming this association rather than describing a new association of the Adenostoma fasciculatum alliance with Q. berberidifolia as a subordinate. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Chamise-Scrub Oak Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Quercus berberidifolia-Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4

Global Description Distribution: This association is known from the Santa Monica Mountains and several other areas within the central and southern coastal California region. This includes western Riverside (Klein and Evens 2005), San Diego (Evens and San 2005), Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Ventura, and Monterey counties (Borchert et al. 2004, Gordon and White 1994). It is probably most extensive in the peninsular ranges (western Riverside County: Santa Ana Mountains, San Jacinto Mountains and foothills; San Diego County: western foothills and Palomar-Cuyamaca Peak regions). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: In the Los Padres National Forest of Monterey and San Luis Obispo counties (Borchert et al. 2004), the scrub oak-chamise alliance is common in the interior portions of the coast ranges, especially in the Sierra Madre Mountains and Garcia Mountains of the San Luis Obispo Ranger District and in the eastern Monterey Ranger District. Most stands occur below elevations of 1,100 m on middle and upper slope positions. Aspects vary but tend to be north facing. Slopes are generally greater than 20 degrees. Vegetation Description: In addition to the codominance of the two main species, a variety of coastal sage and chaparral shrubs (e.g., Rhamnus ilicifolia, Salvia mellifera, Lonicera subspicata, Rhus ovata, Heteromeles

C1188-1/c

488

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

arbutifolia, Eriogonum fasciculatum) may occur at low cover in the open to continuous shrub layer. Comments: There is some confusion about the proper nomenclature for this association and the alliance it is within. The confusion comes from the inversion of the names of the two dominant and characteristic species. The Adenostoma fasciculatum-Quercus berberidifolia Association has been described by Gordon and White 1994, while the Quercus berberidifolia-Adenostoma fasciculatum Alliance and Association have been described by Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Evens and San 2005, and Klein and Evens 2005. Both apparently refer to the same vegetation. The former association has been defined to describe the stands where A. fasciculatum clearly dominates but Q. berberidifolia is present in low cover. This situation is more the norm for the Santa Monica Mountains stands. However, we have chosen to subsume this as an association within the broader mixed Q. berberidifolia-A. fasciculatum Alliance because of the overall similarity in species composition and environmental variables. References: Borchert et al. 2004, Evens and San 2005, Gordon and White 1994, Klein and Evens 2005, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

C1188-1/c

489

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Association Scrub Oak-Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany Shrubland Association Quercus berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Alliance Scrub Oak-Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2591 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep northeast- and northwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 223–314 m. It is characterized by dominance to codominance of Quercus berberidifolia with subdominance to codominance of Cercocarpus betuloides in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer may have mesophytic species such as Melica imperfecta and Marah macrocarpa, but no characteristic herbs have been identified. The emergent tree layer may include Quercus agrifolia, Juglans californica, and small trees of Fraxinus dipetala. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Eastern Urban and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 223–314 m, mean 282.4 m Aspect: northeast and northwest Slope: range 15–35 degrees, mean 29.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating or flat; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: range 60–65%, mean 62.5% Small Rock Cover: range 0–10%, mean 5% Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: range 0–45%, mean 26.3% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: medium loam to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Quercus berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland form an intermittent to continuous shrub layer (46–62%, mean 51%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 2–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–7%, mean 2%) at 0–0.5 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–15% cover, mean 3%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 48–65%, mean cover is 55.8%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Quercus berberidifolia, Cercocarpus betuloides, Rhus ovata, and Heteromeles arbutifolia. Malosma laurina, Ceanothus spinosus, Toxicodendron diversilobum, Ceanothus cuneatus, Mimulus aurantiacus, and Adenostoma fasciculatum are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and can include Quercus agrifolia, Juglans californica, and Fraxinus dipetala at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and may include Melica imperfecta, Centaurea melitensis, and Marah macrocarpus.

C1188-1/c

490

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T JUCA-T Tree Understory FRDI2 Shrub QUBE5 CEBE3 RHOV HEAR5 MALA6 CESP TODI CECU MIAU ADFA Herb MEIM CEME2 POACXX MAMA8

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia Juglans californica

38 38

1.5 0.5

0.2 0.2

7.5 2.5

Fraxinus dipetala

25

0.8

2.0

4.0

Quercus berberidifolia Cercocarpus betuloides Rhus ovata Heteromeles arbutifolia Malosma laurina Ceanothus spinosus Toxicodendron diversilobum Ceanothus cuneatus Mimulus aurantiacus Adenostoma fasciculatum

100 24.5 15.0 31.0 X X 100 12.9 8.0 17.0 X 88 3.7 0.2 8.0 X 75 3.2 0.2 7.5 X 38 0.8 0.2 5.0 38 0.6 1.0 3.0 38 0.5 0.2 2.5 25 2.5 5.0 15.0 25 0.6 2.0 2.5 25 0.1 0.2 0.2

Melica imperfecta Centaurea melitensis Poaceae Marah macrocarpus

25 25 25 25

0.5 0.2 0.2 0.1

1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2

3.0 1.0 1.0 0.2

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 3 of 8 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Senecio mikanioides, Bromus madritensis, Eucalyptus, Galium aparine Samples Used in Description: (n = 8) AA0156cc, AA0590, AA1183, rap0739m, rap0741, rap0742, rap2254m, rap2806 Comments: This vegetation type is most frequently seen in inland, low-elevation locales such as the Malibu Creek drainage. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM

PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS C1188-1/c

Scrub Oak-Birch Leaf Mountain Mahogany Shrubland Association Quercus berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides Alliance (Gordon and White, Sawyer and KeelerWolf 1995) Shrubland Evergreen shrubland 491

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Quercus berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. The alliance is known from the Main Division of the Los Padres National Forest (Borchert et al. 2004) and western Riverside County (Klein and Evens 2005). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: The following information has been provided for the broader alliance concept of Q. berberidifoliaC. betuloides as described by Klein and Evens 2005. It includes further variation not present in the Santa Monica Mountains study area: Elevation is below 1,500 m with aspect usually northerly, rarely southerly. Slope is moderate to steep, and topography is variable. Parent material is more often granite, less often metamorphic, sedimentary, gabbro, diorite, or metavolcanic. Soil texture is more often sandy loam but varies from sandy loam to clay loam. Vegetation Description: Klein and Evens 2005 have 17 samples to describe the Q. berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides Alliance in western Riverside County as follows: Stands of Quercus berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides Shrubland form an open to continuous shrub layer (25–87%), where the two species may be codominant or either species may be subdominant to the other. The shrub layer is frequently in two different strata, with low shrubs at 0.5–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent (0.2–60%) at 0–1 m tall and includes a variety of native and nonnative herbs. Total vegetation cover is 55–89%. Comments: This association has been treated as an alliance/series by Gordon and White 1994, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, and Borchert et al. 2004. It is treated as the type association here and in Sawyer et al. 2006 MS. Further variation of stands with both Q. berberidifolia and C. betuloides was described by Klein and Evens 2005. These include the Quercus berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides-Arctostaphylos glauca Association and the Quercus berberidifolia-Cercocarpus betuloides-Ceanothus crassifolius Association. These also could be thought of as associations within the Quercus berberidifolia Alliance (sensu lato).

C1188-1/c

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

References: Borchert et al. 2004, Gordon and White 1994, Klein and Evens 2005, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Sawyer et al. 2006 MS

C1188-1/c

493

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus wislizenii var. frutescens Shrubland Alliance Scrub Interior Live Oak Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2560 Local Description Summary: This shrubland alliance occurs on somewhat steep northeast- and northwest-facing slopes at mid elevations between 623 and 690 m. It is dominated by Quercus wislizeni var. frutescens in the shrub layer with scattered shrubs of Ceanothus oliganthus. The emergent tree layer includes scattered Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This alliance is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 623–690 m, mean 656.5 m Aspect: northeast and northwest Slope: range 15–23 degrees, mean 19 degrees Topography (micro; macro): convex or concave; upper slope Litter Cover: 30% Small Rock Cover: 10% Large Rock Cover: 45% Bare Ground: 3% Parent Material: quaternary and sedimentary Soil Texture: no data Vegetation Description: Stands of this shrubland alliance form an open to intermittent shrub layer (18–50%, mean 34%). Shrubs occur in two different strata, with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is bare (0%). Trees are occasionally emergent (5–16% cover, mean 10.5%) with hardwoods at 1–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 34–55%, mean cover is 44.5%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Quercus wislizeni var. frutescens, Adenostoma fasciculatum, Arctostaphylos glandulosa, Ceanothus oliganthus, and Heteromeles arbutifolia. Quercus berberidifolia and Adenostoma sparsifolium are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and includes Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple, with Pellaea sp. as the most abundant.

C1188-1/c

494

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Quercus wislizeni var. frutescens Alliance Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Tree Understory QUWI2 Shrub ADFA ARGL3 CEOL HEAR5 QUBE5 ADSP GAVE2 ARGL4 CEME KECO LOSC2 MIAU PIMO5 TODI Herb PELLA

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

100

3.0

1.0

5.0 X X

Quercus wislizeni

100 25.0 15.0 35.0 X X

Adenostoma fasciculatum Arctostaphylos glandulosa Ceanothus oliganthus Heteromeles arbutifolia Quercus berberidifolia Adenostoma sparsifolium Garrya veatchii Arctostaphylos glauca Ceanothus megacarpus Keckiella cordifolia Lotus scoparius Mimulus aurantiacus Pickeringia montana Toxicodendron diversilobum

100 100 100 100 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50

4.5 4.1 4.0 0.2 2.5 1.0 0.5 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1

1.0 0.2 2.0 0.2 5.0 2.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

8.0 8.0 6.0 0.2 5.0 2.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Pellaea

50

0.1

0.2

0.2

X X X X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: None Samples Used in Description: (n = 2) rap2448, rap2801 Comments: This widespread California alliance is very local at the upper elevations of the Santa Monica Mountains. It would be a likely candidate for monitoring long-term effects of global climate change. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION

C1188-1/c

Interior Live Oak Shrubland Alliance None III. Shrubland III.A. Evergreen shrubland III.A.2. Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland III.A.2.N. Natural/Seminatural III.A.2.N.c. Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland

495

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Quercus wislizenii var. frutescens Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S5

Global Description Distribution: This shrubland of cismontane California occurs in the inner north coast range; the foothills of the Cascades and Sierra Nevada Mountains; and the montane Sierra Nevada, transverse, and peninsular ranges. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: This shrubland alliance of cismontane California grows between 300 and 1,850 m elevation on all slopes. Substrates are usually derived from bedrock or alluvium and may be rocky. The climate is Mediterranean with cool, moist winters and warm, dry summers. Most precipitation falls as rain between November and May. Yearly rainfall totals vary between 40 and 200 cm in the range of this alliance. Vegetation Description: This California chaparral community is dominated by at least 60% relative cover of Quercus wislizeni. Other shrubs present may include Arctostaphylos glauca, Arctostaphylos glandulosa, Cercocarpus montanus var. glaber, Aesculus californica, Rhamnus californica, Juniperus californica, Quercus chrysolepis, Adenostoma fasciculatum, Ceanothus leucodermis, Prunus ilicifolia ssp. ilicifolia, Rhamnus ilicifolia, Toxicodendron diversilobum, Quercus berberidifolia, and Ceanothus cuneatus. Emergent individual trees could include Pinus coulteri, Pinus sabiniana, and Pinus attenuata. Comments: None References: Reid et al. 1999, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

C1188-1/c

496

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Rosa californica Shrubland Alliance California Rose Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3010 Local Description Summary: One stand of this shrubland alliance occurs on a gentle riparian stream terrace at low elevation (503 m). It is solely dominated by Rosa californica in the shrub layer. Artemisia californica and Hirschfeldia incana occur at low cover in the herbaceous layer, and no species are recorded in the tree layer. Distribution: This alliance is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: 503 m Aspect: flat/none Slope: 2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat; lower slope/stream terrace Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: no data Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: no data Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: no data Vegetation Description: Stands of Rosa californica Shrubland form an open shrub layer (25%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0.5–1 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–2 m tall. The herbaceous layer is sparse to open (3%) at 0.5–1 m tall. The tree layer is not recorded. Total vegetation cover is 28%. In this alliance, the shrub layer is dominated solely by Rosa californica. Sambucus mexicana exhibits low cover, and other coastal sage species are present at sparse cover. The herbaceous layer is simple with Artemisia douglasiana and Hirschfeldia incana occurring at low cover, and the tree layer is absent.

C1188-1/c

497

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Rosa californica Alliance Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ROCA2 SAME5 ARCA11 SAME3

Rosa californica Sambucus mexicana Artemisia californica Salvia mellifera

100 19.0 19.0 100 2.0 2.0 100 0.2 0.2 100 0.2 0.2

19.0 X X 2.0 X 0.2 X 0.2 X

ARDO3 HIIN3

Artemisia douglasiana Hirschfeldia incana

100 100

4.0 X X 3.0 X X X

Herb 4.0 3.0

4.0 3.0

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Hirschfeldia incana Samples Used in Description: (n = 1) rap2388 Comments: Small stands of this alliance occur on exposed terraces above to stream channels, adjacent to other riparian vegetation. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

California Rose Shrubland Alliance None III. Shrubland III.B. Deciduous shrubland III.B.2. Cold-deciduous shrubland III.B.2.N. Natural/Seminatural cold-deciduous shrubland III.B.2.N.c. Intermittently flooded, cold-deciduous shrubland Rosa californica Shrubland Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This alliance has been recorded in southern California from San Diego and Ventura counties and in central California in Suisun Marsh; however, its distribution is not fully known.

C1188-1/c

498

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: Stands usually occur directly adjacent to stream channels on flat to steep slopes of the stream terraces/banks. Vegetation Description: The shrub layer is an open to continuous canopy with sole dominance by Rosa californica. Associated shrub species may include Sambucus mexicana, Symphoricarpos mollis, and Salix sp. The herbaceous layer is usually open and may include wetland species such as Artemisia douglasiana or Urtica dioica, though they may also include upland species such as Hirschfeldia incana, Brassica, and Bromus spp. Trees are usually absent. Comments: None References: Evens and San 2005, Keeler-Wolf and Vaghti 2000

C1188-1/c

499

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Rhus integrifolia Shrubland Association Lemonade Berry Shrubland Association Rhus integrifolia Shrubland Alliance Lemonade Berry Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2153 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on gentle to abrupt slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 5–750 m. It is characterized by a strong dominance of Rhus integrifolia in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is insignificant but commonly contains Leymus condensatus. The emergent tree layer is usually absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone, Immediate Coast, Eastern Urban, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, and Dry Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 5–750 m, mean 191.6 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–75 degrees, mean 30.4 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); bottom to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 25–90%, mean 40.6% Small Rock Cover: range 0–50%, mean 17% Large Rock Cover: range 0–55%, mean 9.8% Bare Ground: range 5–50%, mean 25.1% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: coarse sand to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Rhus integrifolia Shrubland form an open to continuous shrub layer (6–65%, mean 36.1%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0-2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0.5–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open to intermittent (0–42%, mean 6.7%) at 0–2 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–14% cover, mean 1.4%) with conifers at 0–15 m tall and hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 10–68%, mean cover is 44.3%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Rhus integrifolia. Artemisia californica and Malosma laurina are frequently included in this layer. Other shrubs sometimes present include Salvia mellifera, Heteromeles arbutifolia, Encelia californica, Malacothamnus fasciculatus, Yucca whipplei, and Sambucus mexicana. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia, Juglans californica, and Schinus molle at low cover. The herbaceous layer is diverse and sometimes includes Leymus condensatus, Centaurea melitensis, and Melica imperfecta.

C1188-1/c

500

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Rhus integrifolia Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub RHIN2 ARCA11 MALA6 SAME3 HEAR5 ENCA MAFA ERCI5 MIAU YUWH SAME5 SALE3 RHIL ERFA2

Rhus integrifolia Artemisia californica Malosma laurina Salvia mellifera Heteromeles arbutifolia Encelia californica Malacothamnus fasciculatus Eriogonum cinereum Mimulus aurantiacus Yucca whipplei Sambucus mexicana Salvia leucophylla Rhamnus ilicifolia Eriogonum fasciculatum

100 18.4 2.0 55.0 68 1.9 0.2 8.0 50 2.8 0.2 16.0 48 1.4 0.2 15.0 46 3.0 0.2 27.0 44 1.0 0.2 7.0 34 1.8 0.2 13.0 34 0.9 0.2 8.0 30 0.5 0.2 6.0 30 0.4 0.2 2.5 30 0.3 0.2 5.0 22 0.4 0.2 6.0 22 0.3 0.2 3.0 20 0.4 1.0 4.0

LECO12 CEME2 MEIM

Leymus condensatus Centaurea melitensis Melica imperfecta

42 24 20

X

Herb 1.4 0.5 0.4

0.2 20.0 0.2 8.0 0.2 4.0

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 3 of 50 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Eriogonum crocatum was found in 2 of 50 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G2, and state rank is S2.1 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is Rare (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 5 of 50 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Brassica nigra, Avena, Erodium cicutarium, Avena fatua, Carpobrotus edulis, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus diandrus, Pennisetum setaceum, Nicotiana glauca, Ricinus communis, Myoporum laetum, Bromus hordeaceus, Carduus pycnocephalus, Eucalyptus, Foeniculum vulgare, Limonium perezii, Marrubium vulgare, Vicia villosa, Arundo donax, Ageratina adenophora, Cistus, Cortaderia, Melilotus indicus, Mesembryanthemum crystallinum, Sonchus oleraceus, Erodium, Euphorbia terracina, Medicago polymorpha, Picris echioides, Salsola tragus, Schinus molle Samples Used in Description: (n = 50) AA0148cc, AA0216cc, AA0220cc, AA0394cc, AA0508, AA0622, AA0737, AA0905, AA0906, AA0956, AA0997, AA1021, AA1197, rap0516, rap0519, rap0638, rap0647, rap0693, rap0725,

C1188-1/c

501

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

rap0734, rap0747, rap0954, rap1037, rap1103m, rap1157, rap1254m, rap1274, rap1470m, rap1474, rap1594, rap1597, rap1601, rap1729, rap1756m, rap1894, rap1908, rap1917, rap1954, rap1955, rap1956m, rap2110, rap2116, rap2117m, rap2118, rap2217, rap2364, rap2585, rap2794, rap2858rlv, rap2923 Comments: This association of the R. integrifolia Alliance is characterized by a strong dominance of lemonade berry. As with other associations in this alliance, it tends to occur close to the coast on steep south-facing slopes. Three phases have been identified. In addition to the pure phase, one is a mixture of the dominant with a subdominance of Heteromeles arbutifolia, and the other is a seral postfire phase with Malacothamnus fasciculatus. It is similar to the R. integrifoliaArtemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Association except that the cover of R. integrifolia is higher and the constancy of Eriogonum cinereum and A. californica is substantially lower. This type is occasionally seen in highly disturbed fragments within urbanized areas. Phases: Rhus integrifolia-Heteromeles arbutifolia (Lemonade Berry-Toyon) Phase [2158] Rhus integrifolia-Malacothamnus fasciculatus (Lemonade Berry-Bush Mallow) Phase [7153] Rhus integrifolia (Lemonade Berry) Phase [2153] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Lemonade Berry Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Rhus integrifolia Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. The alliance ranges through the coastal hills and terraces of the south coast (including Ventura to San Diego counties). This association is likely to occur elsewhere in this vicinity. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description.

C1188-1/c

502

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Evens and San 2005

C1188-1/c

503

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Rhus integrifolia-Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Association Lemonade Berry-California Sagebrush-Ashy Buckwheat Shrubland Association Rhus integrifolia Shrubland Alliance Lemonade Berry Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 7157 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on moderate to abrupt slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 4–280 m. It is characterized by a dominance of Rhus integrifolia and a subdominance of Artemisia californica and Eriogonum cinereum in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is sparse and composed mostly of nonnative grasses and herbs. The emergent tree layer is generally absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone, Immediate Coast, and Dry Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 4–280 m, mean 101.8 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 8–70 degrees, mean 32.8 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable (all); bottom to ridgetop Litter Cover: range 15–35%, mean 20.6% Small Rock Cover: range 4–60%, mean 26.4% Large Rock Cover: range 0–90%, mean 19.1% Bare Ground: range 1–70%, mean 24.4% Parent Material: igneous or sedimentary Soil Texture: coarse loamy sand to moderately fine clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Rhus integrifolia-Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (6–58%, mean 29.4%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (1–26%, mean 6.7%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–4% cover, mean 0.1%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 7–72%, mean cover is 35.2%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Rhus integrifolia, Artemisia californica, and Eriogonum cinereum. Malosma laurina, Yucca whipplei, and Salvia leucophylla are frequently included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Leymus condensatus and Pennisetum setaceum.

C1188-1/c

504

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Rhus integrifolia-Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub RHIN2 ARCA11 ERCI5 MALA6 YUWH SALE3 SAME3 ENCA ERFA2 COGI HEAR5 ISAR

Rhus integrifolia Artemisia californica Eriogonum cinereum Malosma laurina Yucca whipplei Salvia leucophylla Salvia mellifera Encelia californica Eriogonum fasciculatum Coreopsis gigantea Heteromeles arbutifolia Isomeris arborea

100 81 78 64 61 56 47 42 36 33 25 25

9.8 3.6 3.5 1.4 1.0 5.8 0.7 0.5 0.6 0.5 0.3 0.1

2.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

35.0 15.0 15.0 9.0 7.0 32.0 5.0 4.0 4.0 5.0 2.5 1.0

LECO12 PESE3 CEME2

Leymus condensatus Pennisetum setaceum Centaurea melitensis

39 33 22

1.3 1.5 0.6

0.2 7.5 0.2 14.0 0.2 4.0

X X X

Herb X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 3 of 36 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Pennisetum setaceum, Centaurea melitensis, Bromus madritensis, Brassica nigra, Hirschfeldia incana, Avena, Avena fatua, Erodium cicutarium, Nicotiana glauca, Anagallis arvensis, Arundo donax, Brassica, Bromus hordeaceus, Erodium, Foeniculum vulgare, Medicago polymorpha, Melilotus indicus, Myoporum laetum, Ricinus communis, Silybum marianum Samples Used in Description: (n = 36) AA0121cc, AA0176cc, AA0215cc, AA0509, AA0617, AA0621, AA0744cc, AA0777, AA0781, AA0870, AA0907, AA0960, AA1014, AA1015, AA1033, rap0511, rap0651, rap0663, rap0665, rap0883, rap0941m, rap1095, rap1096, rap1109m, rap1166, rap1202, rap1277, rap1464, rap1472, rap1478, rap1791m, rap2109, rap2375, rap2537rlv, rap2553, rap2822 Comments: There is some question about how different this association is from the other two associations defined in this alliance. R. integrifolia occupies a fairly distinct setting close to the immediate coast at low elevations and usually on steep slopes including ocean bluffs. The matrix species include A. californica and E. cinereum to varying degrees in most of the 97 samples taken in this alliance. Another approach to classification of this alliance may be to aggregate all stands in the SAMO study area into an R. integrifolia-Artemisia californica-Eriogonum cinereum Association and reduce the additional types described as associations herein to phases. Further analysis of other stands of this alliance in southern California will clarify this issue.

C1188-1/c

505

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: Rhus integrifolia-Artemisia californica-Salvia leucophylla (Lemonade Berry-California SagebrushPurple Sage) Phase [2155] Rhus integrifolia-Eriogonum cinereum-Yucca whipplei-Coreopsis gigantea (Lemonade BerryAshy Buckwheat-Chaparral Yucca-Giant Coreopsis) Phase [7155] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Lemonade Berry-California Sagebrush-Ashy Buckwheat Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Rhus integrifolia Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. This association is probably endemic to the western transverse ranges of southern California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: A similar association, the Rhus integrifolia-Salvia mellifera-Artemisia californica Association, has been described by Evens and San 2005 in coastal San Diego County. It lacks Eriogonum cinereum. References: Evens and San 2005

C1188-1/c

506

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Rhus integrifolia-Opuntia spp.-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland Association Lemonade Berry-Coast Prickly Pear-Ashy Buckwheat Shrubland Association Rhus integrifolia Shrubland Alliance Lemonade Berry Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2151 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to very steep southeast- and southwestfacing slopes at low elevations between 3–251 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Rhus integrifolia and Opuntia littoralis and a constant subdominance of Eriogonum cinereum in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is composed of a mixture of native and nonnative species. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 3–251 m, mean 78.6 m. Aspect: southeast and southwest Slope: range 15–60 degrees, mean 35.8 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating, flat, or concave; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: range 15–40%, mean 27.5% Large Rock Cover: range 1–2%, mean 1.5% Bare Ground: range 5–20%, mean 12.5% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Rhus integrifolia-Opuntia spp.-Eriogonum cinereum Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (29–60%, mean 42.5%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0.5–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–6%, mean 3.5%) at 0–0.5 m tall. Trees are not present. Total vegetation cover is 30–65%, mean cover is 45.6%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Opuntia littoralis, Rhus integrifolia, and Eriogonum cinereum. Artemisia californica, Yucca whipplei, and Encelia californica are often included in this layer. The tree layer is absent. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Brassica nigra, Pennisetum setaceum, Bromus madritensis, Nassella lepida, Melica imperfecta, Calystegia macrostegia, and Foeniculum vulgare.

C1188-1/c

507

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Rhus integrifolia-Opuntia spp.-Eriogonum cinereum Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub OPLI3 RHIN2 ERCI5 ARCA11 YUWH ENCA ERFA2 SAME5 MIAU BRCA3 MALA6 OPOR SAME3 ISAR

Opuntia littoralis Rhus integrifolia Eriogonum cinereum Artemisia californica Yucca whipplei Encelia californica Eriogonum fasciculatum Sambucus mexicana Mimulus aurantiacus Brickellia californica Malosma laurina Opuntia oricola Salvia mellifera Isomeris arborea

100 15.3 3.0 26.0 X X 100 11.6 1.0 30.0 X 100 5.7 0.2 12.0 X 73 2.3 0.2 12.0 73 1.2 0.2 4.0 64 1.3 0.2 8.0 45 0.4 0.2 3.0 45 0.4 0.2 3.0 45 0.2 0.2 1.0 45 0.1 0.2 0.2 36 1.5 3.0 5.0 27 1.7 1.0 10.0 27 0.6 0.2 4.0 27 0.3 0.2 3.0

BRNI PESE3 BRMA3 UNBG NALE2 MEIM CAMA24 FOVU

Brassica nigra Pennisetum setaceum Bromus madritensis Unknown bunch grass Nassella lepida Melica imperfecta Calystegia macrostegia Foeniculum vulgare

55 55 36 27 27 27 27 27

Herb 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.7 0.5 0.5 0.1 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 1.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2

2.0 2.0 1.0 5.0 4.0 3.0 0.2 0.2

X X X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Eriogonum crocatum was found in 1 of 11 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G2, and state rank is S2.1 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is Rare (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Pennisetum setaceum, Bromus madritensis, Foeniculum vulgare, Nicotiana glauca, Avena, Centaurea melitensis, Erodium cicutarium, Malva parviflora, Melilotus indicus, Myoporum laetum, Raphanus sativus, Schinus molle Samples Used in Description: (n = 11) AA0779, AA0908, rap0933, rap0940, rap1130, rap1131, rap1133, rap1134, rap1257m, rap2225, rap2696 Comments: This association has similarities with the Opuntia spp.-Mixed Coastal Sage Scrub Shrubland Association stands in the study area. However, the cover of Rhus integrifolia is much higher, and the general aspect is low elevation on rockier slopes than the Opuntia Alliance stands. Stands may often be seen proximate to one another with the R. integrifolia Alliance almost always on the steeper and rockier portions of the slope.

C1188-1/c

508

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Lemonade Berry-Coast Prickly Pear-Ashy Buckwheat Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Rhus integrifolia Shrubland Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

C1188-1/c

509

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Rhus ovata Shrubland Association Sugar Bush Shrubland Association Rhus ovata Shrubland Alliance Sugar Bush Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2193 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep southwest- and northwest-facing slopes at low elevations between 194–520 m. It is characterized by a strong dominance of Rhus ovata in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is generally open with a varying mixture of native and nonnative species. The emergent tree layer includes Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica but is usually absent. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland, Immediate Coast, Eastern Urban, and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 194–520 m, mean 339.8 m Aspect: southwest and northwest Slope: range 15–38 degrees, mean 29.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat, convex, or concave; middle slope Litter Cover: range 10–70%, mean 40% Small Rock Cover: range 3–44%, mean 23.5% Large Rock Cover: range 0–1%, mean 0.5% Bare Ground: range 27–40%, mean 33.5% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: fine clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Rhus ovata Shrubland form an open to intermittent shrub layer (8–62%, mean 41.9%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 0–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–17%, mean 4.3%) at 0–1 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–14% cover, mean 1.6%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 25–67%, mean cover is 47.7%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Rhus ovata. Malacothamnus fasciculatus, Salvia mellifera, Heteromeles arbutifolia, and Malosma laurina are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and infrequently includes Juglans californica and Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and sometimes includes Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, and Leymus condensatus.

C1188-1/c

510

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Rhus ovata Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub RHOV MAFA SAME3 HEAR5 MALA6 ADFA KECO CEME SAME5 CESP QUBE5 CEBE3 ERFA2 ENCA

Rhus ovata Malacothamnus fasciculatus Salvia mellifera Heteromeles arbutifolia Malosma laurina Adenostoma fasciculatum Keckiella cordifolia Ceanothus megacarpus Sambucus mexicana Ceanothus spinosus Quercus berberidifolia Cercocarpus betuloides Eriogonum fasciculatum Encelia californica

100 30.0 8.0 55.0 X X 70 1.7 0.2 13.0 60 1.1 1.0 3.0 40 2.5 2.5 11.0 40 0.6 0.2 5.0 30 0.9 2.0 4.0 20 1.9 6.0 13.0 20 1.0 5.0 5.0 20 0.7 0.2 7.0 20 0.6 1.0 5.0 20 0.4 2.0 2.5 20 0.3 1.0 2.5 20 0.2 0.2 2.0 20 0.1 0.2 1.0

BRNI CEME2 HIIN3 LECO12 CAMA24 BRDI3 MASA2 MAMA8

Brassica nigra Centaurea melitensis Hirschfeldia incana Leymus condensatus Calystegia macrostegia Bromus diandrus Malacothrix saxatilis Marah macrocarpus

40 30 30 30 20 20 20 20

Herb 0.5 0.8 0.5 0.3 0.6 0.3 0.01 0.01

0.2 1.0 0.2 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.2 0.2

4.0 4.0 3.0 1.0 5.0 2.0 0.2 0.2

X X X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Astragalus brauntonii was found in 1 of 10 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 3-3-3. Global rank is G2, and state rank is S2.1 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is Endangered, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 2 of 10 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus diandrus, Bromus madritensis, Marrubium vulgare, Erodium, Melilotus indicus Samples Used in Description: (n = 10) AA0126cc, rap0930m, rap1713, rap1871, rap1881, rap2015, rap2381, rap2574, rap2645, rap2729 Comments: Some of the stands sampled in this association tend to be composed of hybrid backcrosses between R. ovata and R. integrifolia. However, the majority of physical characteristics of these shrubs appear to have more affinity to R. ovata than R. integrifolia. C1188-1/c

511

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Other stands of the Rhus ovata Alliance described from southern California tend to occur in the driy, inland portions of the region. This also appears to be the case in the Santa Monica Mountains area. Most stands of this association are found in the interior of the study area where summer temperatures are relatively hot and summer fog influence is minimal. Colder winter temperatures may also play a role in the distribution of this type by excluding Malosma laurina. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Sugar Bush Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Rhus ovata Shrubland Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Other somewhat similar associations have been reported from San Diego and Riverside counties (Keeler-Wolf et al. 1998, Klein and Evens 2005) Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Keeler-Wolf et al. 1998, Klein and Evens 2005

C1188-1/c

512

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Rhus ovata-Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica Shrubland Association Sugar Bush-Purple Sage-California Sagebrush Shrubland Association Rhus ovata Shrubland Alliance Sugar Bush Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 2192 Local Description Summary: This shrubland association occurs on somewhat steep to steep northwest- and northeast-facing slopes at low elevations between 265–539 m. It is characterized by a codominance of Rhus ovata, Salvia leucophylla, and Artemisia californica in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer often includes Leymus condensatus. The emergent tree layer includes occasional Juglans californica and Quercus agrifolia. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland, Simi Hills Inland, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, and Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 265–539 m, mean 373 m Aspect: northwest and northeast Slope: range 15-–5 degrees, mean 33 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating, flat, or convex; lower to upper slope Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: 30% Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: range 15–15%, mean 15% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of Rhus ovata-Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica Shrubland form an intermittent to continuous shrub layer (38–62%, mean 45.5%). Shrubs occur in two different strata with low shrubs at 0.5–2 m tall and tall shrubs at 1–5 m tall. The herbaceous layer is open (0–6%, mean 1.7%) at 0–2 m tall. Trees are occasionally emergent (0–11% cover, mean 1.9%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 41–68%, mean cover is 49.4%. In this association, the shrub layer is characterized by Rhus ovata, Salvia leucophylla, Artemisia californica, and Malacothamnus fasciculatus. Heteromeles arbutifolia, Malosma laurina, Eriogonum cinereum, and Salvia mellifera are occasionally included in this layer. The tree layer is emergent and open and may infrequently include Juglans californica and Quercus agrifolia at low cover. The herbaceous layer is simple and frequently includes Leymus condensatus. Centaurea melitensis is also sometimes present.

C1188-1/c

513

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Rhus ovata-Salvia leucophylla-Artemisia californica Association Layer Code Tree Overstory JUCA-T QUAG-T Shrub RHOV SALE3 ARCA11 MAFA HEAR5 MALA6 ERCI5 SAME3 Herb LECO12 CEME2

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Juglans californica Quercus agrifolia

23 23

1.0 1.0

Rhus ovata Salvia leucophylla Artemisia californica Malacothamnus fasciculatus Heteromeles arbutifolia Malosma laurina Eriogonum cinereum Salvia mellifera

100 12.8 6.0 21.0 100 11.6 2.5 24.0 92 11.1 1.0 33.0 92 2.5 0.2 7.5 54 4.7 2.5 15.0 38 0.7 0.2 7.0 31 0.7 0.2 4.0 31 0.5 0.2 3.0

Leymus condensatus Centaurea melitensis

62 23

1.0 0.6

2.5 2.5

0.2 0.2

8.0 7.5 X X X X

2.5 X 5.0

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 4 of 13 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2 (CNPS 2005). Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Brassica nigra, Silybum marianum Samples Used in Description: (n = 13) AA0083cc, AA0104cc, AA0113cc, AA0384cc, AA1093, rap1578, rap1945, rap2085, rap2126, rap2132, rap2273, rap2511, rap2839 Comments: As with the other association of the Rhus ovata Alliance, this association occurs in the more inland portions of the Santa Monica Mountians study area. This type may predominate in areas that experience relatively severe winter frosts. Stands of this association differ from the previous association in having a shorter shrub layer of Artemisia californica and Salvia leucophylla that codominates with the taller and broader evergreen Rhus ovata. As with the previous type, R. ovata individuals in these stands also occasionally have characteristics morphologically intermediate between R. ovata and R. integrifolia. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP

C1188-1/c

Sugar Bush-Purple Sage-California Sagebrush Shrubland Association None Shrubland Evergreen shrubland Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Natural/Seminatural

514

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Sclerophyllous temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland Rhus ovata Shrubland Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: None

C1188-1/c

515

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salix exigua Shrubland Alliance Narrow Leaf Willow Shrubland Alliance Mapping Code: 3110 Local Description Summary: This shrubland alliance usually occurs on flat or gentle sloping surfaces with little or no exposure at low elevations between 1 and 10 m. It is dominated by Salix exigua in the shrub layer. Other Salix species may be present at low cover including S. lasiolepis. The herbaceous layer is diverse and includes Typha sp., Arundo donax, Melilotus albus, and Rorippa nasturtiumaquaticum at low cover. Distribution: This alliance is sampled in the Western Fog Zone region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 1–10 m, mean 5.5 m Aspect: none (flat) Slope: range 0–2 degrees, mean 1.0 degrees Topography (micro; macro): concave or flat; bottom Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: range 0–20%, mean 10.0% Large Rock Cover: range 0–10%, mean 5.0% Bare Ground: range 60–80%, mean 70.0% Parent Material: depositional Soil Texture: sand (class unknown) Vegetation Description: Stands of the Salix exigua Shrubland Alliance form an open shrub layer (6–11%, mean 8.5%) at 0–2 m tall, an open tree layer ( 20% constancy, as well as many forb species such as Dichelostemma capitatum, Hemizonia fasciculata, Lupinus succulentus, and Phacelia cicutaria. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM

PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Black Mustard-Maltese Star Thistle Herbaceous Association California Annual Grassland (Sawyer and KeelerWolf 1995), Nonnative Grassland (Holland 1986), Bromus (diandrus, hordeaceus, madritensis) Herbaceous Alliance (Reid et al. 1999) V. Herbaceous vegetation V.D. Annual graminoid or forb vegetation V.D.2. Temperate or subpolar annual grasslands or forb vegetation V.D.2.N. Natural/Seminatural Medium-Tall temperate annual grassland (This is debatable.) California Annual Grassland/Herbaceous Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S5—Note: These stands are generally strongly dominated by B. nigra and C. melitensis, both invasive weeds with low conservation value; however, some stands may have conservation value due to the seasonal nature of the vegetation and the possibility of native species of limited range inhabiting these stands.

C1188-1/c

588

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Global Description Distribution: This association is only sampled from the Santa Monica Mountains region. However, it is anecdotally known from much of cismontane California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Holland 1986, Reid et al. 1999, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

C1188-1/c

589

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Bromus diandrus Herbaceous Association Ripgut Brome Herbaceous Association California Annual Grassland/Herbaceous Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 50005

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous association occurs on flat to steep often northwest- or southwest-facing slopes at elevations between 31 and 613 m. Bromus diandrus is abundant in the herbaceous layer and Brassica nigra is often present at low cover. Malosma laurina, Baccharis pilularis, Sambucus mexicana, Ceanothus megacarpus, Salvia mellifera, and Heteromeles arbutifolia are occasionally found in the shrub layer at low cover, and Quercus agrifolia is infrequently found in the tree layer at low cover. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Eastern Urban, Western Fog Zone, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Immediate Coast, Dry Inland, and Simi Hills Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 31–613 m, mean 260.9 m Aspect: variable, but most often southwest or northwest Slope: range 0–40 degrees, mean 19.4 degrees Topography (micro; macro): usually flat or undulating; variable Litter Cover: range 35–60%, mean 47.5% Small Rock Cover: range 0–30%, mean 9.4% Large Rock Cover: range 0–45%, mean 5.6% Bare Ground: range 1–62%, mean 21.6% Parent Material: usually igneous or sedimentary, sometimes depositional Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy or silty clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of the Bromus diandrus Herbaceous Association form an open to continuous herbaceous layer (10–90%, mean 38.9%) at 0.01–1 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse to open (0–22%, mean 8.4%) at 0–5 m tall. Trees are infrequently emergent (0–10% cover, mean 1.3%) with hardwoods at 0–15 m tall and conifers at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 15–90%, mean cover is 47.9%. In this association, the herbaceous layer is open to continuous and Bromus diandrus is abundant. Other herbs occur at relatively low cover; for example, Brassica nigra is often included, and Hirschfeldia incana and Centaurea melitensis sometimes occur in this layer. The shrub layer occasionally includes Malosma laurina, Baccharis pilularis, Sambucus mexicana, Ceanothus megacarpus, Salvia mellifera, and Heteromeles arbutifolia. The tree layer infrequently includes Quercus agrifolia as an emergent.

C1188-1/c

590

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Bromus diandrus Association Layer Code Tree Overstory QUAG-T Shrub MALA6 BAPI SAME5 CEME SAME3 HEAR5 ERFA2 MIAU ARCA11 Herb BRDI3 BRNI CEME2 BROMU HIIN3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Quercus agrifolia

23

0.4

0.2

3.0

Malosma laurina Baccharis pilularis Sambucus mexicana Ceanothus megacarpus Salvia mellifera Heteromeles arbutifolia Eriogonum fasciculatum Mimulus aurantiacus Artemisia californica

50 32 32 27 27 27 23 23 23

1.3 0.8 0.4 0.7 0.6 0.5 0.6 0.2 0.2

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

7.0 7.0 4.0 5.0 7.0 4.0 6.0 2.5 3.0

Bromus diandrus Brassica nigra Centaurea melitensis Bromus Hirschfeldia incana

68 55 36 32 32

26.4 0.7 1.2 6.1 0.7

4.0 0.2 0.2 10.0 0.2

90.0 X 5.0 10.0 30.0 5.0

X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 3 of 22 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Hirschfeldia incana, Avena fatua, Bromus hordeaceus, Carduus pycnocephalus, Melilotus indicus, Erodium cicutarium, Marrubium vulgare, Erodium, Bromus madritensis, Piptatherum miliaceum, Malva parviflora, Nicotiana glauca, Silybum marianum, Vicia sativa, Acacia redolens, Avena barbata, Conium maculatum, Erodium botrys, Eucalyptus, Phalaris aquatica, Anagallis arvensis, Avena, Cirsium vulgare, Cistus, Lactuca serriola, Raphanus sativus, Rosmarinus officinalis, Sonchus oleraceus Samples Used in Description: (n = 22) AA0302cc, AA0409, AA0410, AA0810, AA0913, AA0968, rap0038, rap0203, rap0243, rap0371, rap0448, rap0634, rap0759, rap0842, rap1235, rap1319, rap1689, rap2337, rap2523rlv, rap2524rlv, rap2525rlv, rap2893rlv Comments: Although this common association of the California annual grassland/herbaceous alliance shares species with the Brassica nigra associations of the same alliance, it is overwhelmingly dominated by Bromus diandrus. The plots listed without B. diandrus in the summary table all have Bromus sp. listed (unidentified to species due to poor phenology) and are all likely to be B. diandrus. It remains to be seen how environmentally distinct this association is from the other weedy associations in the same alliance (e.g., those with Brassica nigra); however, it does seem to favor slightly wetter areas and slightly deeper soils than the Brassica nigra Alliance.

C1188-1/c

591

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM

PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Ripgut Brome Herbaceous Association California Annual Grassland (Sawyer and KeelerWolf 1995), Nonnative Grassland (Holland 1986), Bromus (diandrus, hordeaceus, madritensis) Herbaceous Alliance (Reid et al. 1999) V. Herbaceous vegetation V.D. Annual graminoid or forb vegetation V.D.2. Temperate or subpolar annual grasslands or forb vegetation V.D.2.N. Natural/Seminatural Medium-Tall temperate annual grassland (This is debatable.) California Annual Grassland/Herbaceous Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S5—Note: These stands are generally strongly dominated by Bromus diandrus, an invasive weed with low conservation value; however, some stands may have conservation value due to the seasonal nature of the vegetation and the possibility of native species of limited range inhabiting these stands.

Global Description Distribution: This association is only sampled from the Santa Monica Mountains region. However, it has been widely observed (but not sampled) in other parts of cismontane California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Holland 1986, Reid et al. 1999, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

C1188-1/c

592

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Bromus diandrus-Avena spp. Herbaceous Association Ripgut Brome-Wild Oat Herbaceous Association California Annual Grassland/Herbaceous Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 50007

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous association occurs on gentle to somewhat steep slopes of variable aspect at elevations between 15 and 550 m. Bromus diandrus is characteristically present in the herbaceous layer and usually codominates with Avena fatua or A. barbata. Brassica nigra is also usually found in this layer at low cover. Hazardia squarrosa, Artemisia californica, and Lotus scoparius are occasionally found in the shrub layer at low cover, and Quercus lobata infrequently occurs in the tree layer at low cover. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, and Dry Inland regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 15–550 m, mean 293 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–15 degrees, mean 6.1 degrees Topography (micro; macro): usually flat or undulating; variable Litter Cover: range 20–60%, mean 37.5% Small Rock Cover: range 0–30%, mean 7.2% Large Rock Cover: range 0–2%, mean 0.3% Bare Ground: range 1–74%, mean 28.9% Parent Material: variable but frequently depositional or sedimentary Soil Texture: variable, but often fine clay Vegetation Description: Stands of the Bromus diandrus-Avena spp. Herbaceous Association form an open to intermittent herbaceous layer (10–65%, mean 43.9%) at 0.01–1 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse to open (0–9%, mean 2.4%) at 0–5 m tall. Trees are infrequently emergent (0–1% cover, mean 0.1%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 13–70%, mean cover is 46.3%. In this association, the herbaceous layer is open to intermittent, and Bromus diandrus is characteristically present and codominant with either Avena fatua or A. barbata. Brassica nigra is usually included in this layer at low cover while Bromus madritensis, Bromus hordeaceus, and Marrubium vulgare are occasionally present. Other forbs are occasionally present and sometimes abundant such as Erodium botrys and Centaurea melitensis. The shrub layer sometimes includes Hazardia squarrosa, Artemisia californica, and Lotus scoparius. The tree layer infrequently includes Quercus lobata as an emergent.

C1188-1/c

593

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Bromus diandrus-Avena spp. Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub HASQ2 ARCA11 LOSC2 BAPI SALE3

Hazardia squarrosa Artemisia californica Lotus scoparius Baccharis pilularis Salvia leucophylla

50 30 30 20 20

0.2 0.7 0.4 0.4 0.01

0.2 0.2 0.2 1.0 0.2

1.0 5.0 3.0 3.0 0.2

BRDI3 AVFA BRNI AVBA BRMA3 MAVU BRHO2 ERBO CEME2 MEIN2 MEPO3 FOVU LEFI11 RASA2 ANAR HEGR7 HEFA LUSU3 AMPS DICA14 GNAPH GRCA SOOL

Bromus diandrus Avena fatua Brassica nigra Avena barbata Bromus madritensis Marrubium vulgare Bromus hordeaceus Erodium botrys Centaurea melitensis Melilotus indicus Medicago polymorpha Foeniculum vulgare Lessingia filaginifolia Raphanus sativus Anagallis arvensis Heterotheca grandiflora Hemizonia fasciculata Lupinus succulentus Ambrosia psilostachya Dichelostemma capitatum Gnaphalium Grindelia camporum Sonchus oleraceus

90 60 60 40 40 40 40 30 30 30 30 30 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20

9.8 12.1 0.7 3.3 2.3 0.6 0.4 6.3 1.9 0.2 0.1 0.1 0.3 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.1 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01

1.0 0.2 0.2 6.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 3.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

20.0 51.0 4.0 12.0 10.0 5.0 3.0 35.0 17.0 1.0 1.0 0.2 3.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Herb X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Bromus diandrus, Avena fatua, Brassica nigra, Avena barbata, Bromus madritensis, Marrubium vulgare, Bromus hordeaceus, Erodium botrys, Centaurea melitensis, Melilotus indicus, Medicago polymorpha, Foeniculum vulgare, Raphanus sativus, Anagallis arvensis, Sonchus oleraceus, Lolium multiflorum, Avena, Hypochaeris, Cirsium vulgare, Vicia villosa, Euphorbia terracina, Rumex crispus, Silene gallica, Erodium, Erodium cicutarium, Erodium moschatum, Hirschfeldia incana, Malva parviflora, Nicotiana glauca, Sonchus, Sonchus asper, Vicia sativa Samples Used in Description: (n = 10) AA1074, rap0324, rap0397m, rap0849, rap0924, rap1328, rap2526rlv, rap2641rlv, rap2790rlv, rap2903rlv

C1188-1/c

594

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Comments: Of all the California annual grasslands dominated by nonnative annual grasses, those with Avena sp. and mixes of other species tend to have a higher proportion of native annuals. However, this dataset suggests that any given native herbaceous species tend to occur in only 20% or less of the stands. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM

PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Ripgut Brome-Wild Oat Herbaceous Association California Annual Grassland (Sawyer and KeelerWolf 1995), Nonnative Grassland (Holland 1986), Bromus (diandrus, hordeaceus, madritensis) Herbaceous Alliance (Reid et al. 1999) V. Herbaceous vegetation V.D. Annual graminoid or forb vegetation V.D.2. Temperate or subpolar annual grasslands or forb vegetation V.D.2.N. Natural/Seminatural Medium-Tall temperate annual grassland (This is debatable.) California Annual Grassland/Herbaceous Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S5—Note: These stands are generally strongly dominated by Avena sp. and Bromus diandrus, both invasive weeds with low conservation value; however, some stands may have conservation value due to the seasonal nature of the vegetation and the possibility of native species of limited range inhabiting these stands.

Global Description Distribution: This association is only sampled from the Santa Monica Mountains region. However, it is anecdotally known from much of cismontane California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description.

C1188-1/c

595

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Comments: See local description. References: Holland 1986, Reid et al. 1999, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

C1188-1/c

596

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Distichlis spicata-Ambrosia chamissonis Herbaceous Association Salt Grass-Dune Burweed Herbaceous Association Distichlis spicata Herbaceous Alliance Salt Grass Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4511

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous association occurs on flat to somewhat steep, often northeast slopes at low elevations between 0 and 15 m. It is dominated by Distichlis spicata in the herbaceous layer, and Ambrosia chamissonis is characteristically present as a subdominant. Atriplex lentiformis, Atriplex watsonii, and Suaeda taxifolia are sometimes found in the shrub layer at low cover. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–15 m, mean 4 m Aspect: variable, but often northeast Slope: range 0–15 degrees, mean 3.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): frequently flat; lower to bottom Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: range 0–25%, mean 11% Large Rock Cover: range 0–1%, mean 0.2% Bare Ground: range 10–70%, mean 52% Parent Material: depositional Soil Texture: sand Vegetation Description: Stands of the Distichlis spicata-Ambrosia chamissonis Herbaceous Association form a sparse to intermittent herbaceous layer (0–44%, mean 12.1%) at 0.01–1 m tall. The shrub layer is open to intermittent (1–49%, mean 11.7%) at 0.01–2 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 2–55%, mean cover is 23.4%. In this association, the herbaceous layer is sparse to intermittent and is dominated by Distichlis spicata, and Ambrosia chamissonis is characteristically present usually as a subdominant. Cakile maritima, Arundo donax, and Carpobrotus edulis are often included in this layer at low cover. The shrub layer occasionally includes Atriplex lentiformis, Atriplex watsonii, Suaeda taxifolia, and Coreopsis gigantea at low cover.

C1188-1/c

597

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Distichlis spicata-Ambrosia chamissonis Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ATLE SUCA ATWA COGI

Atriplex lentiformis Suaeda taxifolia Atriplex watsonii Coreopsis gigantea

43 29 29 29

0.5 0.4 0.2 0.1

0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2

2.0 2.0 1.0 0.2

AMCH4 DISP CAMA ARDO4 CAED3 CACH13 CYDA ABMA2 MASA2

Ambrosia chamissonis Distichlis spicata Cakile maritima Arundo donax Carpobrotus edulis Camissonia cheiranthifolia Cynodon dactylon Abronia maritima Malacothrix saxatilis

100 4.5 0.2 16.0 X 86 13.2 0.2 43.0 X X 71 0.3 0.2 1.0 X 57 1.1 0.2 5.0 X 57 0.2 0.2 1.0 X 43 0.2 0.2 1.0 29 0.3 1.0 1.0 X 29 0.1 0.2 0.2 29 0.1 0.2 0.2

Herb

Other Noteworthy Species: Abronia maritima was found in 2 of 7 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and the CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-2. Global rank is G4?, and state rank is S3?. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Eriogonum crocatum was found in 1 of 7 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G2, and state rank is S2.1. Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is Rare (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Suaeda taxifolia (synonym S. californica var. taxifolia) was found in 2 of 7 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-1. Global rank is G3?, and state rank is S2S3. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Cakile maritima, Arundo donax, Carpobrotus edulis, Cynodon dactylon, Melilotus, Salsola tragus, Erodium, Foeniculum vulgare, Nicotiana glauca, Osteospermum, Pennisetum setaceum, Tetragonia tetragonioides Samples Used in Description: (n = 7) rap0869, rap0871, rap0970, rap0971, rap1199m, rap1271, rap2612 Comments: Although not sampled anywhere outside of the study area, this association is likely to be relatively rare. However, it is not unusual for the two nominate species to co-occur in coastal settings throughout California where brackish to saline lagoons and other bodies of water exist adjacent to sand flats or dunes. Phases: None

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598

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Salt Grass-Dune Burweed Herbaceous Association None V. Herbaceous vegetation V.A. Perennial graminoid vegetation V.A.5. Temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural V.A.5.N.i. Intermittently flooded temperate or subpolar grassland Distichlis spicata Herbaceous Alliance (Distichlis spicata Tidal Herbaceous Alliance) 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S2

Global Description Distribution: This association is only sampled from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Anecdotal observation suggests it may occur northward at least to Marin County in northwest California, where brackish or saline lagoons and other bodies of water exist adjacent to sand flats or dunes (T. Keeler-Wolf personal observation). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Reid et al. 1999, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

C1188-1/c

599

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Distichlis spicata-Salicornia virginica-Jaumea carnosa Herbaceous Association Salt Grass-Pickleweed-Marsh Jaumea Herbaceous Association Distichlis spicata Herbaceous Alliance Salt Grass Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4527

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous association occurs on flat to gently sloped ground at low elevations between 0 and 6 m. Distichlis spicata and Jaumea carnosa are codominant and characteristically present in the herbaceous layer, and Salicornia virginica is usually present and subdominant to codominant. Frankenia salina is characteristically found in the shrub layer at low cover. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–6 m, mean 3 m Aspect: flat Slope: no data Topography (micro; macro): flat; bottom Litter Cover: 10% (one sample) Small Rock Cover: no data Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: range 60–80%, mean 70% Parent Material: depositional Soil Texture: sand to clay Vegetation Description: Stands of the Distichlis spicata-Salicornia virginica-Jaumea carnosa Herbaceous Association form an open to intermittent herbaceous layer (24–58%, mean 44.6%) at 0.01–0.5 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse to open (0–27%, mean 12.3%) at 0–2 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 51–70%, mean cover is 58.4%. In this association, the herbaceous layer is open to intermittent, and Jaumea carnosa is characteristically present. Distichlis spicata and Salicornia virginica are also usually present. Jaumea and Distichlis are codominant, while Salicornia is subdominant to codominant. Cuscuta salina, Melilotus indicus, Monanthochloe littoralis, Rumex crispus, Scirpus californicus, and Typha spp. are also occasionally found in this layer at low cover. The shrub layer characteristically includes Frankenia salina at low cover, while Batis maritima, Suaeda taxifolia, and Atriplex lentiformis are also sometimes present.

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600

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Distichlis spicata-Salicornia virginica-Jaumea carnosa Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub FRSA BAMA5 SUCA ATLE

Frankenia salina Batis maritima Suaeda taxifolia Atriplex lentiformis

86 29 29 29

2.7 2.3 0.9 0.6

0.2 5.0 1.0 15.0 1.0 5.0 1.0 3.0

X

JACA4 DISP SAVI SALIC CUSA MEIN2 MOLI RUCR SCCA TYPHA

Jaumea carnosa Distichlis spicata Salicornia virginica Salicornia Cuscuta salina Melilotus indicus Monanthochloe littoralis Rumex crispus Scirpus californicus Typha

100 22.3 4.0 55.0 71 14.6 1.0 43.0 57 9.0 7.0 23.0 43 2.4 3.0 10.0 43 0.6 1.0 2.0 29 0.7 1.0 4.0 29 0.5 0.2 3.0 29 0.2 0.2 1.0 29 0.1 0.2 0.2 29 0.1 0.2 0.2

X

Herb

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Suaeda taxifolia (synonym S. californica var. taxifolia) was found in 2 of 7 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-1. Global rank is G3?, and state rank is S2S3. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Melilotus indicus, Rumex crispus, Carpobrotus edulis, Oxalis pes-caprae Samples Used in Description: (n = 7) rap0904m, rap1012, rap1023, rap2647, rap2707, rap2772, rap2773 Comments: The variation in the cover of Distichlis and Salicornia suggests that this association is perhaps better considered a part of a mixed alliance of S. virginica and D. spicata. However, at this point we remain conservative and select the Distichlis spicata Alliance because of the continuously higher cover of Distichlis and other nonwoody herbs such as Jaumea carnosa. There are several other plant associations listed for California that contain D. spicata, J. carnosa, and S. virginica. All have been placed in the D. spicata Alliance (e.g., Distichlis spicata-Frankenia salina-Jaumea carnosa from Point Reyes and Jaumea carnosa-Distichlis spicata from southern California). This association is the most typical of the "upper" salt marsh associations locally. Its ecological position is typically slightly more elevated and more toward the landward edge of the marsh relative to such associations as the S. virginica-Algae and the Salicornia virginica-Frankenia salina-Suaeda taxifolia Association. During low tides and in the hot summer months, this association regularly dries out and probably develops higher soil salinity than the adjacent regularly flooded tidal marsh. In some cases field crews were unable to determine the identity of Salicornia sp. in the samples, thus listing Salicornia sp. with S. virginica. Combined, these two taxa occurred in nearly 100% of the samples. Further, the field crews placed Salicornia in the shrub layer upon doing species cover and total shrub cover estimates, although many species in

C1188-1/c

601

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

this genus are traditionally considered perennial herbaceous vegetation (UCB 2004, NatureServe 2005). Phases: Salicornia virginica-Jaumea carnosa-Distichlis spicata (Pickleweed-Marsh Jaumea-Salt Grass) Phase [4527] Distichlis spicata-Jaumea carnosa (Salt Grass-Marsh Jaumea) Phase [4514] COMMON NAME FORMATION CLASS FORMATION SUBCLASS FORMATION GROUP FORMATION SUBGROUP FORMATION NAME ALLIANCE NAME CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Salt Grass-Pickleweed-Marsh Jaumea-Herbaceous Association V. Herbaceous vegetation V.A. Perennial graminoid vegetation V.A.5. Temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N.i. Intermittently flooded temperate or subpolar grassland Distichlis spicata Intermittently Flooded Herbaceous Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. It appears closely related if not identical to stands defined elsewhere in California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: NatureServe et al. 2003a, Peniado et al. 1994, Zedler 1982

C1188-1/c

602

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Euphorbia terracina Herbaceous Stands Geraldton Carnation Weed Herbaceous Stands Mapping Code: 4771

Local Description Summary: Three herbaceous stands occur on gentle to somewhat steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 5 and 48 m. It is dominated by Euphorbia terracina in the herbaceous layer, and Brassica nigra and Bromus diandrus are characteristically present at lower cover. Ricinus communis is often found in the shrub layer at low cover, and Platanus racemosa is often in the tree layer at low cover. Distribution: This vegetation type is sampled in the Immediate Coast region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 5–48 m, mean 26 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 2–22 degrees, mean 9.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable; most often lower or bottom Litter Cover: 40% Small Rock Cover: range 0–10%, mean 5% Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: range 20–35%, mean 27.5% Parent Material: depositional Soil Texture: moderately fine clay Vegetation Description: Stands of Euphorbia terracina form an intermittent to continuous herbaceous layer (50–80%, mean 65.3%) at 0.01–2 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse to open (0–1%, mean 0.7%) at 0.01–1 m tall. Trees are often emergent (0–5% cover, mean 2%) with hardwoods at 5–15 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 51–80%, mean cover is 67%. The herbaceous layer is intermittent to continuous and is dominated by Euphorbia terracina, while Brassica nigra and Bromus diandrus are characteristically present at low cover. Foeniculum vulgare, Silybum marianum, and Hordeum sp. are usually included in this layer. The shrub layer is sparse and often includes Ricinus communis, but other shrubs such as Myoporum laetum, Artemisia californica, Baccharis pilularis, Encelia californica, Sambucus mexicana, and Opuntia sp. are sometimes present. The tree layer may include Platanus racemosa and may occasionally include Quercus agrifolia and Juglans californica as emergent trees.

C1188-1/c

603

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Euphorbia terracina Stands Layer Code Tree Overstory PLRA QUAG-T Tree Understory JUCA-M QUAG-M Shrub RICO3 MYLA5 ARCA11 BAPI ENCA OPUNT SAME5 Herb EUTE10 BRNI BRDI3 FOVU HORDE SIMA3 BRMA3 CAED3 MEIN2 AVENA AVBA BRMAR CHAM ERODI HETE5 LOLIU MAPA5 OXPE PACA9 PIMI3 RUUR

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Platanus racemosa Quercus agrifolia

67 33

1.7 0.3

0.2 1.0

5.0 X 1.0

Juglans californica Quercus agrifolia

33 33

0.1 0.1

0.2 0.2

0.2 0.2

Ricinus communis Myoporum laetum Artemisia californica Baccharis pilularis Encelia californica Opuntia Sambucus mexicana

67 33 33 33 33 33 33

0.1 0.3 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1

0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Euphorbia terracina Brassica nigra Bromus diandrus Foeniculum vulgare Hordeum Silybum marianum Bromus madritensis Carpobrotus edulis Melilotus indicus Avena Avena barbata Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens Chenopodium ambrosioides Erodium Hesperocnide tenella Lolium Malva parviflora Oxalis pes-caprae Papaver californicum Piptatherum miliaceum Rubus ursinus

100 56.0 25.0 100 5.0 1.0 100 0.5 0.2 67 0.1 0.2 67 0.1 0.2 67 0.1 0.2 33 1.7 5.0 33 1.0 3.0 33 0.7 2.0 33 0.1 0.2 33 0.1 0.2 33 0.1 0.2

78.0 X X X 13.0 X X 1.0 X X 0.2 X 0.2 0.2 X 5.0 X 3.0 X 2.0 X 0.2 X 0.2 X 0.2 X

33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

X X

X X X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 1 of 3 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Euphorbia terracina, Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Foeniculum vulgare, Ricinus communis, Silybum marianum, Bromus madritensis, Carpobrotus edulis, Melilotus indicus, Myoporum C1188-1/c

604

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

laetum, Avena, Avena barbata, Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens, Chenopodium ambrosioides, Erodium, Lolium multiflorum, Malva parviflora, Oxalis pes-caprae, Piptatherum miliaceum Samples Used in Description: (n = 3) rap1006, rap1027, rap2535rlv Comments: Euphorbia terracina is a dangerously invasive nonnative species, which has taken over several coastal terraces and slopes near Malibu and other coastal areas of the Santa Monica Mountains. It tends to form such dense stands that it excludes other herbaceous species and probably native woody species. It is not considered extensive enough, nor sufficiently regionally established, to be considered an alliance yet. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Geraldton Carnation Weed Stands None V. Herbaceous vegetation V.B. Perennial forb vegetation V.B.2. Temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation. V.B.2.N. Natural/Seminatural perennial forb vegetation V.B.2.N.a. Tall temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation Euphorbia terracina Herbaceous Stands 3

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

None, invasive exotic

Global Description Distribution: This vegetation is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description.

C1188-1/c

605

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Comments: See local description. References: Bossard et al. 2000

C1188-1/c

606

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Foeniculum vulgare Herbaceous Alliance Fennel Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4760

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous alliance occurs on somewhat steep to flat slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 140 and 178 m. It is dominated by Foeniculum vulgare in the herbaceous layer. Baccharis pilularis and Rhus integrifolia are often found in the shrub layer at low cover, and Schinus molle and Juglans californica are occasionally present in the tree layer at low cover. Distribution: This alliance is sampled in the Dry Inland and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 140–178 m, mean 160 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 15–15 degrees, mean 15 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable; lower to mid Litter Cover: range 55–80%, mean 67.5% Small Rock Cover: range 1–15%, mean 8% Large Rock Cover: range 0–8%, mean 4% Bare Ground: range 15–19%, mean 17% Parent Material: igneous or depositional Soil Texture: fine clay Vegetation Description: Stands of this herbaceous alliance form an open to continuous herbaceous layer (25–69%, mean 37.3%) at 0.5–5 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse to open (0–15%, mean 5.3%) at 0.5–5 m tall. Trees sometimes are emergent (0–2% cover, mean 0.8%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 30–70%, mean cover is 43.5%. In this alliance, the herbaceous layer is open to continuous and is dominated by Foeniculum vulgare. Brassica nigra and Carduus pycnocephalus are occasionally included in this layer. The shrub layer is open and frequently includes Baccharis pilularis and Rhus integrifolia. Occasionally, Heteromeles arbutifolia, Malacothamnus fasciculatus, Mimulus aurantiacus, and Salvia leucophylla are present in the shrub layer. The tree layer sometimes includes Schinus molle and Juglans californica as emergent trees.

C1188-1/c

607

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Foeniculum vulgare Alliance Layer Code Tree Overstory SCMO JUCA-T Tree Understory JUCA-M SCMO Shrub BAPI RHIN2 HEAR5 MAFA MIAU SALE3 SAME5 RICO3 SALA6-M Herb FOVU BRNI CAPY2 LECO12 UNHE BRDI3 MASA2 URDI

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Schinus molle Juglans californica

25 25

0.6 0.3

2.5 1.0

2.5 1.0

X

Juglans californica Schinus molle

25 25

0.1 0.1

0.2 0.2

0.2 0.2

Baccharis pilularis Rhus integrifolia Heteromeles arbutifolia Malacothamnus fasciculatus Mimulus aurantiacus Salvia leucophylla Sambucus mexicana Ricinus communis Salix lasiolepis

75 50 25 25 25 25 25 25 25

0.3 1.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.3 0.1

0.2 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 1.0 0.2

1.0 X 4.0 X 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 1.0 X 0.2

Foeniculum vulgare Brassica nigra Carduus pycnocephalus Leymus condensatus Unknown herbs/forbs Bromus diandrus Malacothrix saxatilis Urtica dioica

100 29.4 7.5 68.0 X X X 50 2.3 2.0 7.0 X 50 1.3 0.2 5.0 X 25 1.9 7.5 7.5 25 1.9 7.5 7.5 25 0.3 1.0 1.0 X 25 0.1 0.2 0.2 25 0.1 0.2 0.2

X

Other Noteworthy Species: Juglans californica was found in 2 of 4 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Foeniculum vulgare, Brassica nigra, Carduus pycnocephalus, Schinus molle, Bromus diandrus, Ricinus communis, Schinus molle Samples Used in Description: (n = 4) AA0350cc, rap0120m, rap2248, rap2249 Comments: Common fennel stands are now widespread in coastal central and southern California. They have caused concern on Santa Cruz Island (R. Klinger 1998, personal communication) because of the difficulty of removing them and being replaced by other weedy species. Stands have not been adequately sampled in any part of California to determine individual associations. Phases: None

C1188-1/c

608

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Fennel Alliance None V. Herbaceous vegetation V.B. Perennial forb vegetation V.B.2. Temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation V.B.2.N. Natural/Seminatural perennial forb vegetation V.B.2.N.a. Tall temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation Foeniculum vulgare Herbaceous Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

None, invasive exotic weed

Global Description Distribution: This alliance is known from the Santa Monica Mountains region and also from Suisun Marsh in Solano County. However, it commonly occurs in open to continuous stands in the central and south coast ranges and Santa Cruz Island. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Bossard et al. 2000, Keeler-Wolf and Vaghti 2000

C1188-1/c

609

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Frankenia salina-Limonium californicum-Monanthochloe littoralisSalicornia spp. Herbaceous Association Alkali Heath-California Sea Lavender-Shore Grass-Pickleweed Herbaceous Association Frankenia salina Herbaceous Alliance Alkali Heath Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4551

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous association occurs on flat ground at low elevations between 1 and 3 m. Monanthochloe littoralis and Distichlis spicata are characteristically abundant and codominant with Salicornia virginica in the herbaceous layer. Limonium californicum is characteristically present and subdominant. Frankenia salina is characteristically found in the shrub layer at low cover. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 1–3 m, mean 1.8 m Aspect: flat Slope: no data Topography (micro; macro): flat; bottom Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: no data Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: range 10–10%, mean 10% Parent Material: no data Soil Texture: fine clay to sand Vegetation Description: Stands of the Frankenia salina-Limonium californicum-Monanthochloe littoralis-Salicornia spp. Herbaceous Association form an open to intermittent herbaceous layer (6–60%, mean 43.4%) at 0.01–0.5 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse to intermittent (0–47%, mean 13.2%) at 0–0.5 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 47–75%, mean cover is 56.6%. In this association, the herbaceous layer is open to intermittent, and Monanthochloe littoralis and Distichlis spicata are characteristically present and codominant with Salicornia virginica. Limonium californicum is also characteristically present as a subdominant, and Jaumea carnosa is occasionally included in this layer. The shrub layer characteristically includes Frankenia salina, and it frequently includes Suaeda taxifolia and Batis maritima.

C1188-1/c

610

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Frankenia salina-Limonium californicum-Monanthochloe littoralisSalicornia spp. Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub FRSA SUCA BAMA5 ATLE ATRIP COGI OPLI3

Frankenia salina Suaeda taxifolia Batis maritima Atriplex lentiformis Atriplex Coreopsis gigantea Opuntia littoralis

100 17.0 5.0 20.0 X X 80 5.8 3.0 15.0 X 80 1.1 0.2 4.0 X 40 0.6 0.2 3.0 20 0.4 2.0 2.0 20 0.01 0.2 0.2 20 0.01 0.2 0.2

MOLI DISP LICA5 SAVI SASU2 JACA4 TRCO4 SABI CUSA

Monanthochloe littoralis Distichlis spicata Limonium californicum Salicornia virginica Salicornia subterminalis Jaumea carnosa Triglochin concinnum Salicornia bigelovii Cuscuta salina

100 7.9 0.2 100 7.6 0.2 100 2.6 0.2 80 10.2 7.0 40 2.0 0.2 40 1.4 2.0 20 1.0 5.0 20 0.2 1.0 20 0.01 0.2

Herb 22.0 X X 20.0 X X 5.0 X 17.0 X 10.0 5.0 5.0 1.0 0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: Suaeda taxifolia (synonym S. californica var. taxifolia) was found in 4 of 5 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-1. Global rank is G3?, and state rank is S2S3. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: None Samples Used in Description: (n = 5) rap0866, rap0867m, rap0879, rap0880, rap0908 Comments: This association has only been sampled from the study area, but it is likely to occur in other coastal salt marshes of southern California and adjacent Baja California, Mexico. It is closely related to several other coastal salt marsh associations in the Salicornia virginica Alliance. Further analysis of more sample data from other areas will be necessary to determine whether this association of the alkali heath alliance should remain a separate entity. The field crews placed Salicornia spp. in the shrub layer when doing species cover and total shrub cover estimates, although many species in this genus are traditionally considered perennial herbaceous vegetation (UCB 2004, NatureServe 2005). Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM

C1188-1/c

Alkali Heath-California Sea Lavender-Shore GrassPickleweed Herbaceous Association None

611

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

V. Herbaceous vegetation V.B. Perennial forb vegetation V.B.2. Temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation V.B.2.N. Natural/Seminatural Intermittentently flooded perennial herbaceous vegetation Frankenia salina Herbaceous Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S2?

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: More northerly stands of the Frankenia salina Alliance have been sampled in Suisun Marsh (Solano County, California), but these stands did not have Limonium californicum or Monanthochloe littoralis associated with them. In general, stands dominated by Frankenia salina are less regularly flooded than stands of Salicornia virginica and occur on the outer margins of coastal marshes and other saline wetlands. References: UCB 2004 Jepson Online Interchange For California Floristics, developed and maintained within the Jepson Flora Project (JFP) at the University of California and Jepson Herbaria (UC/JEPS), University of California, Berkeley (http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/interchange.html), NatureServe 2005 NatureServe explorer; and an online encyclopedia of life http://www.natureserve.org/explorer/

C1188-1/c

612

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Juncus effusus Herbaceous Alliance Common Rush Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4330

Local Description Summary: One stand of this herbaceous vegetation occurs on a flat surface at low elevation (3 m). It is dominated by Juncus effusus in the herbaceous layer, with likely identification as J. effusus var. brunneus or J. effusus var. pacificus. Shrub species include Myoporum laetum and Baccharis pilularis. Emergent tree species include Washingtonia (introduced). Distribution: This alliance is sampled in the Western Fog Zone region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: 3 m Aspect: flat/none Slope: 0 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat; bottom Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: no data Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: no data Parent Material: alluvium/dune Soil Texture: sand Vegetation Description: One stand of the Juncus effusus Herbaceous Alliance forms an intermittent herbaceous layer (58%) at 0.5–1 m tall. The shrub layer is open (7%) at 0.5–2 m tall. Emergent trees are sparsely occurring (1%) with mainly hardwoods. Total vegetation cover is 65%. In this alliance, the herbaceous layer is dominated by Juncus, likely J. effusus var. brunneus or J. effusus var. pacificus. Other graminoids and forbs occur in this layer at relatively low cover, including nonnative Carpobrotus edulis. The shrub layer is open, and Myoporum laetum and Baccharis pilularis exhibit low cover. The tree layer is sparse and includes Washingtonia (introduced).

C1188-1/c

613

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Juncus effusus Alliance Layer Code Tree Understory WASHI Shrub MYLA5 BAPI ARCA11 ATLE BASA4 NIGL Herb JUNCU CAED3 BRNI CORTA PESE3

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Washingtonia

100

1.0

1.0

1.0 X X X

Myoporum laetum Baccharis pilularis Artemisia californica Atriplex lentiformis Baccharis salicifolia Nicotiana glauca

100 100 100 100 100 100

4.0 3.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

4.0 3.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

4.0 X X X 3.0 X X 0.2 X 0.2 X 0.2 X 0.2 X X

Juncus (effusus) Carpobrotus edulis Brassica nigra Cortaderia Pennisetum setaceum

100 55.0 55.0 100 1.0 1.0 100 0.2 0.2 100 0.2 0.2 100 0.2 0.2

55.0 X X 1.0 X X 0.2 X X 0.2 X X 0.2 X X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Myoporum laetum, Carpobrotus edulis, Brassica nigra, Cortaderia, Nicotiana glauca, Pennisetum setaceum Samples Used in Description: (n = 1) rap1198m Comments: This stand was assessed at a distance with binoculars (stand occurred at a military firing range); thus, more information on species composition is needed to fully characterize this vegetation. This type may occur on a smaller scale on the immediate coast at seeps along or below coastal bluffs. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP

ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Rush Herbaceous Stand None V. Herbaceous vegetation V.A. Perennial graminoid vegetation V.A.5. Temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N.k. Seasonally flooded temperate or subpolar grassland Juncus effusus Herbaceous Stand 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4?

FORMATION

C1188-1/c

614

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Global Description Distribution: Stands of various Juncus species occur in California including Juncus mexicanus, J. balticus, and J. effusus. Juncus effusus Alliance is found in most of the southeast states and elsewhere, although the full range in North America is incomplete. It is also found in the Pacific Northwest from British Columbia south to California. A Juncus effusus var. brunneus Association has been found within a few kilometers of the coast in the vicinity of the Point Reyes National Seashore as well as from the Puget Trough region of Washington and British Columbia. Also, a J. effusus Alliance with J. e. pacificus has been identified in inland San Diego County. Nations: United States, Canada States or Provinces: United States: AL, AR, CA, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA and Canada, British Columbia. However, full distribution is not known in North America. Environmental Description: In Marin County, Juncus effusus var. brunneus Association was observed in small stands (under 2 ha.) in seasonally saturated soils within flats, depressions, or gentle slopes of all aspects. Stands prefer basins, bottoms, and plains, which are saturated during the rainy season and usually hold moist soils (sandy loams) most of the growing season. Juncus effusus stands are often able to persist in a degraded form in heavily grazed pastures where species associates are largely nonnative. In San Diego County, Juncus effusus var. pacificus stands occurred as small stands in artificially created stock ponds, riparian features, minor depressions/draws, and wet meadows/seeps. Across the country, Juncus effusus has a wide ecological amplitude, and additional alliances with different hydrologies may need to be defined. It is found in marsh habitats that vary greatly in size, situation, geographical location, species composition, and naturalness. Some are beaver-made or human-made impoundments. Vegetation Description: This alliance is currently broadly and literally defined, based on dominance by Juncus effusus. In Marin County, Juncus effusus var. brunneus has been found dominant, and other species at low cover may include Potentilla anserina var. pacifica, Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus, Trifolium wormskioldii, Trifolium repens, Equisetum telmateia braunii, Vicia sp and/or Vulpia sp. In San Diego County, Juncus effusus var. pacificus was found dominant with Urtica dioica, while Juncus mexicanus and Typha latifolia are present in low cover. Calocedrus decurrens or Salix spp. are found as emergent trees. Across the country, associated species may include Andropogon glomeratus, Cyperus spp., Typha latifolia, Scirpus cyperinus, Triadenum walteri, Apios americana, and Galium aparine. Comments: Identification of the Juncus to subspecies is needed within the Santa Monica Mountains region before this alliance can be related to other Juncus effusus stands in the state and beyond. References: Evens and San 2005, NatureServe 2005, NatureServe et al. 2003a

C1188-1/c

615

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Lepidium latifolium Herbaceous Association Broad-Leaved Pepperweed Herbaceous Association Lepidium latifolium Herbaceous Alliance Broad-Leaved Pepperweed Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4780

Local Description Summary: One stand of this herbaceous association occurs on a gentle slope at low elevation (225 m). It is dominated by Lepidium latifolium in the herbaceous layer. Other herbs may also be present and are subdominant to low in cover such as Hirschfeldia incana, Conium maculatum, and Bromus madritensis. Baccharis salicifolia and B. pilularis are found in the shrub layer at low cover and, in the single sample, Fraxinus velutina and Quercus lobata are in the tree layer as sparse emergent trees. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: 225 m Aspect: variable Slope: 2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating; bottom to lower Litter Cover: 80% Small Rock Cover: no data Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: no data Parent Material: depositional Soil Texture: medium to very fine loamy sand Vegetation Description: One stand of Lepidium latifolium Herbaceous Association forms an intermittent herbaceous layer (54%) at 0.5–1 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse (1%) at 0–2 m tall. Trees are emergent (< 0.2%) with hardwoods at 5–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 63–63%, mean cover is 63%. In this association, the herbaceous layer is intermittent and is dominated by Lepidium latifolium. Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus madritensis, Conium maculatum, and Silybum marianum are also included in this layer and may be subdominant to low in cover. The shrub layer includes Baccharis salicifolia and B. pilularis at low cover. The tree layer includes Fraxinus velutina and Quercus lobata as sparse emergent trees.

C1188-1/c

616

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Lepidium latifolium Association Layer Code Tree Overstory FRVE2 QULO-T Shrub BASA4 BAPI SAME5 Herb HIIN3 BRMA3 COMA2 LEPID SIMA3 ARDO3 RUCR

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Fraxinus velutina Quercus lobata

100 100

0.2 0.2

0.2 0.2

0.2 X X 0.2 X X

Baccharis salicifolia Baccharis pilularis Sambucus mexicana

100 100 100

1.0 0.2 0.2

1.0 0.2 0.2

1.0 0.2 0.2

Hirschfeldia incana Bromus madritensis Conium maculatum Lepidium Silybum marianum Artemisia douglasiana Rumex crispus

100 18.0 18.0 18.0 X X X 100 1.0 1.0 1.0 X X 100 1.0 1.0 1.0 X X 100 40.0 40.0 40.0 X X 100 1.0 1.0 1.0 X X 100 0.2 0.2 0.2 X 100 0.2 0.2 0.2 X X

X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Hirschfeldia incana, Bromus madritensis, Conium maculatum, Silybum marianum, Rumex crispus Samples Used in Description: (n = 1) rap2686 Comments: These stands are made up of the dangerously invasive exotic weed Lepidium latifolium, which has proven very difficult to remove. Extensive stands can be found along Madea Creek and Paramount Ranch. These were not sampled because native vegetation is currently being restored and the Lepidium eradicated. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Broad-Leaved Pepperweed Herbaceous Association None V. Herbaceous vegetation V.B. Perennial forb vegetation V.B.2. Temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation V.B.2.N. Natural/Seminatural Intermittentently flooded perennial herbaceous vegetation Lepidium latifolium Herbaceous Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

None, this is an invasive weedy association.

C1188-1/c

617

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Global Description Distribution: This vegetation type has not been identified as an alliance in the National Vegetation Classification System. According to the NRCS PLANTS database (http://plants.usda.gov/), it has been listed as a State Noxious Weed for 43 states. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: Associations of Lepidium latifolium as well as Salix gooddingii and Baccharis pilularis alliances with high cover of Lepidium latifolium in the understory have been defined from San Diego County. They occur in riparian settings (e.g., San Dieguito River watershed). Other strongly herbaceous-dominated stands of Lepidium latifolium have been described from saline and brackish marshes of northern California. References: Bossard et al. 2000, Evens and San 2005, Keeler-Wolf and Vaghti 2000

C1188-1/c

618

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Leymus condensatus Herbaceous Association Giant Wild Rye Herbaceous Association Leymus condensatus Herbaceous Alliance Giant Wild Rye Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4041

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous association occurs on somewhat steep to steep often northerly slopes at low elevations between 25 and 503 m. It is dominated by Leymus condensatus in the herbaceous layer, though sometimes nonnative species can codominate with this native grass. Salvia leucophylla is usually found in the shrub layer at low cover, and Juglans californica, Quercus agrifolia, and Sambucus mexicana infrequently occur in the tree or tall shrub layer at low cover. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland, Immediate Coast, Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains, Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, and Western Fog Zone regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 25–503 m, mean 352.1 m Aspect: variable, but often northwest and northeast Slope: range 15–38 degrees, mean 30 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable; variable, but often lower to mid Litter Cover: range 25–75%, mean 50% Small Rock Cover: range 0–15%, mean 6% Large Rock Cover: range 0–2%, mean 0.5% Bare Ground: range 5–55%, mean 22% Parent Material: frequently sedimentary Soil Texture: moderately fine silty clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of the Leymus condensatus Herbaceous Association form an open to intermittent herbaceous layer (20–62%, mean 39.7%) at 0.01–2 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse to open though sometimes intermittent (0–35%, mean 8.6%) at 0–5 m tall. Trees are infrequently emergent (0–7% cover, mean 0.9%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 30–65%, mean cover is 48.8%. In this association, the herbaceous layer is open to intermittent and is dominated by Leymus condensatus. However, nonnative grasses and forbs may be present and subdominant to codominant. For example, nonnative Brassica nigra is often included in this layer. Nonnatives Bromus diandrus and Avena fatua occasionally occur, as does the native forb Malacothrix saxatilis. The shrub layer usually includes Salvia leucophylla and Sambucus mexicana, Artemisia californica, Malacothamnus fasciculatus, Hazardia squarrosa, and Eriogonum cinereum are occurring occasionally. The tree layer infrequently includes Juglans californica, Quercus agrifolia, and Sambucus mexicana as sparse emergent trees.

C1188-1/c

619

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Leymus condensatus Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub SALE3 SAME5 ARCA11 MAFA HASQ2 ERCI5 MALA6 TODI RHOV

Salvia leucophylla Sambucus mexicana Artemisia californica Malacothamnus fasciculatus Hazardia squarrosa Eriogonum cinereum Malosma laurina Toxicodendron diversilobum Rhus ovata

67 50 50 33 29 25 21 21 21

1.2 1.1 0.5 1.2 0.4 0.4 0.7 0.4 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2

8.0 5.0 4.0 8.0 4.0 5.0 7.0 4.0 1.0

LECO12 BRNI BRDI3 MASA2 AVFA HIIN3 CEME2

Leymus condensatus Brassica nigra Bromus diandrus Malacothrix saxatilis Avena fatua Hirschfeldia incana Centaurea melitensis

100 24.0 6.0 48.0 X X 58 2.6 0.2 12.0 X 38 5.1 3.0 25.0 X 29 0.2 0.2 2.0 25 2.9 1.0 23.0 X 21 1.0 0.2 12.0 X 21 0.7 0.2 8.0 X

Herb

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 24 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Juglans californica was found in 2 of 24 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Avena fatua, Hirschfeldia incana, Centaurea melitensis, Carduus pycnocephalus, Lactuca serriola, Bromus hordeaceus, Erodium cicutarium, Bromus madritensis, Marrubium vulgare, Nicotiana glauca, Avena, Foeniculum vulgare, Galium aparine, Lolium multiflorum, Melilotus indicus, Silybum marianum, Tropaeolum majus Samples Used in Description: (n = 24) AA0316cc, AA1103, AA1113, rap0466m, rap0983, rap1300, rap1316, rap1365, rap1460, rap1461, rap1499, rap1500m, rap1714m, rap1810, rap1816, rap1845, rap1848, rap1890, rap1924, rap1940, rap2006, rap2013m, rap2129, rap2301 Comments: This association is the first to be defined from this alliance. The alliance and this association tend to be short lived because they are stimulated by fire and are fairly quickly taken over by native shrubs of the coastal sage scrub zone following fire. Keeley 2002 has suggested that Leymus condensatus was one of the species whose abundance was maintained by Native American burning. In the SAMO mapping area, Leymus does occur after fires; however, it may persist

C1188-1/c

620

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

independently of fire in areas of human disturbance and urban runoff or in areas of coastal sage scrub where natural slumping and seepage occur. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Giant Wild Rye Herbaceous Association None V. Herbaceous vegetation V.A. Perennial graminoid vegetation V.A.5. Temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural V.A.5.N.a. Tall sod temperate grassland Leymus condensatus Herbaceous Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. However, it is likely to occur sporadically throughout central and southern coastal California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Keeley 2002

C1188-1/c

621

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Leymus triticoides Herbaceous Alliance Creeping Wild Rye Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4030

Local Description Summary: Two stands of this herbaceous alliance occur on gentle to somewhat steep northeast and southeast slopes at low elevations between 224 and 305 m. They are dominated by Leymus triticoides in the herbaceous layer. Baccharis pilularis, Baccharis salicifolia, Hazardia squarrosa, and Sambucus mexicana are found in the shrub layer at low cover. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Dry Inland and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 224–305 m, mean 264.5 m Aspect: northeast and southeast Slope: range 2–20 degrees, mean 11 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat; lower Litter Cover: range 30–90%, mean 60% Small Rock Cover: no data Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: no data Parent Material: depositional Soil Texture: fine silty clay Vegetation Description: Stands of this herbaceous alliance form a continuous herbaceous layer (75-80%, mean 77.5%) at 0.01-0.5 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse at 0-1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 75-80%, mean cover is 77.5%. In this alliance, the herbaceous layer is continuous and is dominated by Leymus triticoides. Lactuca serriola is frequently included in this layer at low cover. The shrub layer may include Baccharis pilularis, Baccharis salicifolia, Hazardia squarrosa, and Sambucus mexicana at sparse cover.

C1188-1/c

622

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Leymus triticoides Alliance Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub BAPI BASA4 HASQ2 SAME5

Baccharis pilularis Baccharis salicifolia Hazardia squarrosa Sambucus mexicana

50 50 50 50

0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

LETR5 LASE SOOL ASFA AVFA BRNI BRCA10 BRDI3 BRHO2 BRMA3 CAPY2 CEME2 CIVU HIIN3 PHAQ RUCR SIMA3

Leymus triticoides Lactuca serriola Sonchus oleraceus Asclepias fascicularis Avena fatua Brassica nigra Bromopsis canadensis Bromus diandrus Bromus hordeaceus Bromus madritensis Carduus pycnocephalus Centaurea melitensis Cirsium vulgare Hirschfeldia incana Phalaris aquatica Rumex crispus Silybum marianum

100 71.0 70.0 72.0 X X 100 1.6 0.2 3.0 X X 50 5.0 10.0 10.0 X 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 X 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 X 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 X 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 X 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 X 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 X 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 X 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 X 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 X 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 X 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 X 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 X

Herb

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Lactuca serriola, Sonchus oleraceus, Avena fatua, Brassica nigra, Bromus diandrus, Bromus hordeaceus, Bromus madritensis, Carduus pycnocephalus, Centaurea melitensis, Cirsium vulgare, Hirschfeldia incana, Phalaris aquatica, Rumex crispus, Silybum marianum Samples Used in Description: (n = 2) rap2421, rap2563rlv Comments: This alliance appears to be rare and is represented only by a few small stands in the study area. It seems to prefer mesic areas of grasslands in the inland Malibu Creek watershed, especially Las Virgines Canyon. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS C1188-1/c

Beardless Wild Rye Temporarily Flooded Herbaceous Alliance Creeping Wild Rye Grassland V. Herbaceous vegetation V.A. Perennial graminoid vegetation 623

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

V.A.5. Temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural V.A.5.N.j. Temporarily flooded temperate or subpolar grassland Leymus triticoides Herbaceous Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S3

Global Description Distribution: This alliance is known from the Santa Monica Mountains as well as other parts of California including the Central Valley, central coast, and south coastal California (Evens and San 2004, Holland 1986, Holstein 2001, Keeler-Wolf and Vaghti 2000). It has been described from Oregon and Nevada as well (NatureServe 2005). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA, OR, NV Environmental Description: Outside of California, this alliance is described from the Warner Valley of southeastern Oregon and the Cow Creek Basin on northwestern Nevada. Elevations range from 1,250–1,600 m. Climate is arid with mostly winter precipitation ranging from 10–25 cm annually. Stands occur in valleys in drainage bottoms, poorly drained floodplains, and historic lake basins. Sites are typically nearly flat but include moderate slopes (to 18%). It is found on the less xeric northeast and east aspects in Nevada. Soils are typically poorly drained, alkaline, with sandy loam to clay loam texture. The water table is shallow and causes mottles in the soil. Adjacent communities are shrublands dominated by Artemisia tridentata. Within California, this alliance occurs at elevations below 1,000 m on flat to moderate slopes of clay or loam soils where the climate is mediterranean (with cool wet winters and warm dry summers and precipitation ranging from 25 to 70 cm). Many stands may be relictual from preagricultural California, and nonnative grasses (or agriculture) probably have replaced many of the native stands. Leymus triticoides stands occur in open grassland habitats, drainage bottoms, floodplains, ravines/draws along coastal slopes, and so forth. Adjacent communities include other prairie or grassland habitats and oak savannas. Vegetation Description: As described in Oregon and Nevada, this vegetation occurs in bottomlands and lake basins. Stands have a moderate herbaceous layer (50–80% cover) codominated by the perennial graminoids Elymus triticoides with Poa secunda or Carex spp. Other frequent graminoid species include Distichlis spicata, Hordeum californica, H. jubatum, Juncus balticus, and forbs such as Achillea millefolium, Agoseris glauca, Iris missouriensis, Scirpus spp., Triglochin maritima and Nitrophila occidentalis in the saline/alkaline playas. In California, stands are equally high in cover and may be dominated by Leymus triticoides or codominated with annual grasses. Frequent

C1188-1/c

624

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

species include Avena fatua, Bromus diandrus, B. hordeaceus, Carduus pycnocephalus, Distichlis spicata, Lactuca serriola, Lolium multiflorum, and Vulpia spp. Comments: Stands of this vegetation in California have recently been described by Holstein 2001. This grassland was once much more widespread in the Central Valley prior to the development of lowlying lands for agriculture. References: Evens and San 2004, Holland 1986, Holstein 2001, Keeler-Wolf and Vaghti 2000, NatureServe 2005

C1188-1/c

625

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Lolium multiflorum Herbaceous Association Italian Ryegrass Herbaceous Association Lolium multiflorum Herbaceous Alliance Italian Ryegrass Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4210

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous association occurs on flat to somewhat steep slopes of variable aspect at elevations between 208 and 270 m. It is dominated by Lolium multiflorum in the herbaceous layer. Baccharis pilularis is occasionally found in the shrub layer at low cover. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 208–270 m, mean 230.3 m Aspect: usually flat Slope: range 0–15 degrees, mean 4.6 degrees Topography (micro; macro): usually flat or undulating; most often bottom or lower Litter Cover: range 90–90%, mean 90% Small Rock Cover: range 0–1%, mean 0.7% Large Rock Cover: range 0–1%, mean 0.3% Bare Ground: range 0–10%, mean 5.7% Parent Material: depositional Soil Texture: fine clay or silty clay Vegetation Description: Stands of the Lolium multiflorum Herbaceous Association form an intermittent to continuous herbaceous layer (40–90%, mean 66.4%) at 0.01–1 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse (0–1%, mean < 0.2%) at 0–2 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 40–90%, mean cover is 66.4%. In this association, the herbaceous layer is dominated intermittently to continuously by Lolium multiflorum. A variety of other nonnative species also occur at low cover. For example, Bromus diandrus and Brassica nigra are often included in this layer, while Avena fatua, Phalaris aquatica, and Bromus hordeaceus sometimes occur. The shrub layer occasionally includes Baccharis pilularis at sparse cover.

C1188-1/c

626

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Lolium multiflorum Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub BAPI

Baccharis pilularis

43

0.1

0.2

LOLIU BRDI3 BRNI AVFA PHAQ BRHO2 VIVI BRMA3 CIVU RASA2 HEFA

Lolium Bromus diandrus Brassica nigra Avena fatua Phalaris aquatica Bromus hordeaceus Vicia villosa Bromus madritensis Cirsium vulgare Raphanus sativus Hemizonia fasciculata

100 55.3 20.0 71 2.7 0.2 71 0.6 0.2 43 0.6 0.2 43 0.3 0.2 43 0.2 0.2 29 1.0 1.0 29 0.6 0.2 29 0.2 0.2 29 0.2 0.2 29 0.1 0.2

0.2

Herb 80.0 X X X 10.0 X 2.0 X 3.0 X 2.0 X 1.0 X 6.0 X 4.0 X 1.0 X 1.0 X 0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Lolium multiflorum, Bromus diandrus, Brassica nigra, Avena fatua, Phalaris aquatica, Bromus hordeaceus, Vicia villosa, Bromus madritensis, Cirsium vulgare, Raphanus sativus, Avena, Hirschfeldia incana, Erodium cicutarium, Phalaris caroliniana, Rumex crispus, Anthemis cotula, Bromus tectorum, Centaurea melitensis, Cynara cardunculus, Lactuca serriola, Malva parviflora, Marrubium vulgare, Medicago polymorpha, Sonchus asper, Sonchus oleraceus Samples Used in Description: (n = 7) rap0039, rap0065m, rap0068, rap1426, rap2529rlv, rap2530rlv, rap2849rlv Comments: This is a widespread and well-integrated nonnative graminoid vegetation alliance of much of California, and similar if not identical associations may occur throughout much of cismontane California below approximately 1,000 m elevation. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM

PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE

C1188-1/c

Italian Ryegrass Herbaceous Association California Annual Grassland (Sawyer and KeelerWolf 1995), Nonnative Grassland (Holland 1986), Bromus (diandrus, hordeaceus, madritensis) Herbaceous Alliance (Reid et al. 1999) V. Herbaceous vegetation V.D. Annual graminoid or forb vegetation V.D.2. Temperate or subpolar annual grasslands or forb vegetation V.D.2.N. Natural/Seminatural Short temperate annual grassland Lolium multiflorum Herbaceous Alliance

627

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S5—While Lolium multiflorum is now established in California as an invasive exotic grass alliance, certain stands may contain sensitive plant species and may have conservation value.

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Although the pure Lolium multiflorum Association has been only defined here, it is likely to occur throughout much of cismontane California below approximately 1,000 m elevation in relatively low-lying areas that remain moist through much of the spring. It has only recently been separated from the broader California annual grassland alliance (Evens and San 2004, Evens et al. 2004, Keeler-Wolf and Vaghti 2000, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf ms 2005). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: This alliance is likely to display a variety of associations in California. For example, it has been described on serpentine soils in central California (Santa Clara County), and another type has been defined in the Sierra Nevada foothills (Tuolumne County). Associations are also described from the margins of Suisun Marsh (Solano County). References: Evens and San 2004, Evens et al. 2004, Holland 1986, Keeler-Wolf and Vaghti 2000, Reid et al. 1999, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf MS 2005, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

C1188-1/c

628

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Nassella lepida Herbaceous Alliance Foothill Needlegrass Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4090

Local Description Summary: One stand of this herbaceous alliance occurs on a moderately steep, southeast-facing slope at low elevation at 290 m. It is codominated by Nassella lepida and Bromus hordeaceus in the herbaceous layer. Malosma laurina, Eriogonum cinereum, Rhus integrifolia, and Salvia leucophylla are found in the shrub layer at low cover. Distribution: This alliance is sampled in the Immediate Coast region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: 290 m Aspect: southeast Slope: 8 degrees Topography (micro; macro): convex; upper to top Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: 20% Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: 28% Parent Material: sedimentary Soil Texture: no data Vegetation Description: One stand of this herbaceous alliance forms an intermittent herbaceous layer (41%) at 0.01–0.5 m tall. The shrub layer is 8% at 0.5–5 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 51%. In this alliance, the herbaceous layer is intermittent and is codominated by Nassella lepida and Bromus hordeaceus. The shrub layer includes Malosma laurina, Eriogonum cinereum, Rhus integrifolia, and Salvia leucophylla at low cover.

C1188-1/c

629

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Nassella lepida Alliance Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub MALA6 ERCI5 RHIN2 SALE3 ARCA11 HASQ2 MIAU OPLI3 YUWH

Malosma laurina Eriogonum cinereum Rhus integrifolia Salvia leucophylla Artemisia californica Hazardia squarrosa Mimulus aurantiacus Opuntia littoralis Yucca whipplei

100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100

3.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

3.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

3.0 X X 1.0 X 1.0 X 1.0 X 0.2 X 0.2 X 0.2 X 0.2 X 0.2 X

NALE2 BRHO2

Nassella lepida Bromus hordeaceus

100 30.0 30.0 30.0 X X 100 13.0 13.0 13.0 X X X

Herb

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Bromus hordeaceus Samples Used in Description: (n = 1) rap0176 Comments: Part of the problem in describing this alliance was in the uncertain identification of Nassella species (either pulchra or lepida) due to sampling at nonflowering or fruiting seasons. This alliance appears to occur only rarely in the study area, and it may locally dominate following fire. The species is usually accompanied by relatively high cover of coastal scrub species. Such stands are considered shrublands. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Foothill Needlegrass Alliance None V. Herbaceous vegetation V.A. Perennial graminoid vegetation V.A.5. Temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural V.A.5.N.d. Medium-Tall bunch temperate or subpolar grassland Nassella lepida Herbaceous Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

C1188-1/c

630

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Global Description Distribution: This alliance occurs in northern, central, and southern cismontane California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: This bunchgrass alliance of California's valleys and foothills grows on deep soils with high clay content, often derived from sandstone or ultramafic parent material. Stands can occur on all topographic positions. However, because of climatic factors, they do not occur in more than 1,700 m elevation. The native California bunchgrasses are adapted to a mediterranean climate with moist, cool winters and long, dry summers. Precipitation varies from 25 and 70 cm per year and falls mostly between November and April. Stands typically include many nonnative annual grasses and herbs. Vegetation Description: This native grass forms a medium to tall bunch temperate or subpolar grassland with an open canopy less than 1 m in height. Emergent trees and shrubs may be present. This California native bunchgrass alliance is dominated by Nassella lepida. Other graminoids present may include Festuca californica, Melica californica, Nassella pulchra, Nassella cernua, Calamagrostis koelerioides, and Poa secunda. Many nonnative annuals, such as Bromus hordeaceus and B. diandrus, have invaded stands of this alliance. On sites with ultramafic-derived soils, serpentine-adapted species may be present. Comments: Stands of this and other central and southern California coastal native grassland alliances may have been maintained by Native American burning (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Keeley 2002). References: Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Keeley 2002

C1188-1/c

631

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Nassella pulchra Herbaceous Alliance Purple Needlegrass Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4020 Although most samples of this widespread cismontane California alliance fell into one specific local association that is described in the following text, five samples did not and will be briefly described here. These five stands are found on fine to moderately fine silty clay loam and range from flat to moderately steep slopes. In general, the stands of Nassella pulchra grassland are small and are typically associated with shrublands immediately adjacent to them. Unlike Nassella lepida, N. pulchra does not commonly occur in the understory of coastal scrub communities dominated by Salvia spp. or Artemisia californica. Nassella pulchra does associate with the early seral shrubs, Baccharis pilularis and Hazardia squarrosa, where these shrubs usually are colonizing grass-dominated stands. The most constant and abundant members of these five stands, aside from Nassella pulchra, are Bromus diandrus and Avena fatua. This once extensive bunchgrass alliance of California's valleys and foothills grows on deep soils with high clay content (Holland 1986, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995). Stands can occur on all topographic positions. However, because of climatic factors, they do not occur in more than 1,300 m elevation. The native California and Baja California bunchgrass is adapted to a mediterranean climate with moist, cool winters and long, dry summers. Precipitation varies from 25 to 70 cm per year and falls mostly between November and April. Grazing and fire are important in maintaining the grassland communities, though uncertainty still exists concerning the optimum grazing type and intensity. Stands now typically include many nonnative annual grasses, and reduction in fire frequency has probably favored introduced annual grasses over native perennial bunchgrasses. This native grass forms a medium to tall bunch temperate or subpolar grassland with an open canopy less than 1 m in height. Emergent trees and shrubs may be present. The alliance is dominated by Nassella pulchra, or the native grass cover is at least 10–15% relative to the nonnative grass cover. Other graminoids present may include Elymus glaucus, Festuca californica, Melica californica, Nassella lepida, N. cernua, Melica imperfecta, Koeleria macrantha, and Poa secunda. Many nonnative annuals, such as Bromus diandrus, B. madritensis, B. hordeaceus, Avena barbata, A. fatua, and Lolium multiflorum, have invaded stands of this alliance. Samples classified to the alliance level only: (n = 5 ) AA0699, AA1187, rap1121, rap1217, rap1876 References: Holland 1986, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

C1188-1/c

632

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Nassella pulchra-Hazardia squarrosa Herbaceous Association Purple Needlegrass-Sawtooth Goldenbush Herbaceous Association Nassella pulchra Herbaceous Alliance Purple Needlegrass Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4021

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous association occurs on gentle to steep often northeast or northwest slopes at low elevations between 52 and 422 m. Nassella pulchra is characteristically abundant in the herbaceous layer. Hazardia squarrosa is characteristically found in the shrub layer at low cover, and Artemisia californica is also usually present in this layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast, Western Fog Zone, Dry Inland, and Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 52–422 m, mean 172 m Aspect: variable, often northeast or northwest Slope: range 2–35 degrees, mean 13.4 degrees Topography (micro; macro): usually flat; variable, but often mid to upper Litter Cover: range 15–85%, mean 50.3% Small Rock Cover: range 0–23%, mean 5.8% Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: range 2–36%, mean 19.6% Parent Material: frequently sedimentary Soil Texture: usually fine to moderately fine clay Vegetation Description: Stands of the Nassella pulchra-Hazardia squarrosa Herbaceous Association form an open to intermittent herbaceous layer (19–55%, mean 39.5%) at 0.01–1 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse to open (0–13%, mean 5%) at 0.01–2 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 28–58%, mean cover is 44.4%. In this association, the herbaceous layer is open to intermittent, and Nassella pulchra is characteristically abundant. A variety of other herbaceous species occurs, and they may be subdominant. For example, Avena fatua is often present, and Calochortus catalinae, Sisyrinchium bellum, Hemizonia fasciculate, Bromus madritensis, Bromus hordeaceus, Brassica nigra, and Erodium cicutarium are sometimes found in this layer. The shrub layer characteristically includes Hazardia squarrosa and often includes Artemisia californica at low cover.

C1188-1/c

633

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Nassella pulchra-Hazardia squarrosa Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub HASQ2 ARCA11 SALE3 LOSC2 OPLI3

Hazardia squarrosa Artemisia californica Salvia leucophylla Lotus scoparius Opuntia littoralis

92 62 46 23 23

2.9 1.0 0.5 0.1 0.1

0.2 13.0 X X 0.2 4.0 0.2 3.0 0.2 1.0 0.2 1.0

NAPU4 AVFA BRMA3 CACA5 BRHO2 SIBE BRNI ERCI6 BRDI3 HEFA GRCA LEFI11 MASA2 ANAR DICA14 SAAR10 FOVU MEPO3 SOOL

Nassella pulchra Avena fatua Bromus madritensis Calochortus catalinae Bromus hordeaceus Sisyrinchium bellum Brassica nigra Erodium cicutarium Bromus diandrus Hemizonia fasciculata Grindelia camporum Lessingia filaginifolia Malacothrix saxatilis Anagallis arvensis Dichelostemma capitatum Sanicula arguta Foeniculum vulgare Medicago polymorpha Sonchus oleraceus

85 54 46 46 38 38 38 38 31 31 31 31 23 23 23 23 23 23 23

21.0 1.3 0.5 0.2 1.8 0.7 0.1 0.1 1.5 0.7 0.4 0.1 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.1 0.01 0.01 0.01

2.0 49.0 X X 0.2 10.0 X 0.2 2.0 X 0.2 1.0 1.0 8.0 X 0.2 6.0 0.2 0.2 X 0.2 0.2 X 0.2 15.0 X 0.2 5.0 0.2 2.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 4.0 0.2 3.0 X 0.2 1.0 0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2 X 0.2 0.2 X 0.2 0.2 X

Herb

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 5 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Dichondra occidentalis was found in 1 of 13 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-1. Global rank is G4?, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Dudleya blochmaniae was found in 1 of 13 surveys of this plant community, which may be the rare Dudleya blochmaniae subsp. blochmaniae. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-3-2. Global rank is G2T2, and state rank is S2.1. Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Avena fatua, Bromus madritensis, Bromus hordeaceus, Brassica nigra, Erodium cicutarium, Bromus diandrus, Anagallis arvensis, Foeniculum vulgare, Medicago polymorpha, Sonchus

C1188-1/c

634

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

oleraceus, Hirschfeldia incana, Silene gallica, Avena, Avena barbata, Erodium moschatum, Euphorbia terracina, Vicia villosa, Erodium, Galium aparine, Lactuca serriola, Lolium multiflorum, Marrubium vulgare, Melilotus indicus, Phalaris aquatica, Senecio vulgaris, Silybum marianum, Sonchus asper Samples Used in Description: (n = 13) AA0481cc, rap0104, rap0922, rap0985, rap1146, rap2012, rap2532rlv, rap2533rlv, rap2534rlv, rap2795, rap2873rlv, rap2913rlv, rap2914rlv Comments: This is the most common native grassland in the study area and the primary representative of the widespread Nassella pulchra Alliance (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995). It shows a transitional and seral nature to scrubland by the constant presence of Hazardia squarrosa, a common early seral perennial subshrub of coastal southern California. Further, Hazardia squarrosa/Nassella pulchraHemizonia fasciculata Shrubland Association is also defined in the study area where the shrub layer is more developed. It would be useful to monitor several of these local stands with different fire histories to gain a better understanding of the persistence of this association under different fire regimes and soil types. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Purple Needlegrass-Sawtooth Goldenbush Herbaceous Association Valley Needlegrass Grassland (Holland 1986, in part) V. Herbaceous vegetation V.A. Perennial graminoid vegetation V.A.5. Temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N.d. Medium-Tall bunch temperate or subpolar grassland Nassella pulchra Herbaceous Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Other associations of this alliance range throughout cismontane California. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA

C1188-1/c

635

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Holland 1986, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

C1188-1/c

636

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Pennisetum setaceum Herbaceous Alliance Fountain Grass Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4060 Three samples of this dangerously invasive nonnative alliance were classified to the alliance level only and will be briefly described here. These occurred on steep southerly facing slopes in the eastern urban, immediate coastal, and Simi Hills regions of the park in similar settings to the described Pennisetum Association to follow. The nonnative (African) fountain grass alliance tends to form monospecific stands although it may also have a number of emergent native or nonnative woody species such as Rhus integrifolia, R. ovata, Artemisia californica, Encelia californica, Eriogonum fasciculatum, or E. cinereum associated with the stands. This is the first study in which this alliance has been identified in California. However, it is well understood to be commonly occurring as an invasive grassland along sea cliffs and road cuts from San Diego County to Santa Barbara County and has been noted inland as far as AnzaBorrego Desert State Park in San Diego County. The alliance appears to be dangerously invasive (Bossard et al. 2000) and was initially established as ornamental plantings but has now begun colonizing cliffs and other steep slopes away from direct human disturbance such as road embankments. One association has already been defined in this study of the Santa Monica Mountains. Samples classified to the alliance level only: (n = 3) AA0936, rap1272, rap2279 References: Bossard et al. 2000

C1188-1/c

637

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Pennisetum setaceum-Coreopsis gigantea-Yucca whipplei-Malosma laurina Herbaceous Association Fountain Grass-Giant Coreopsis-Chaparral Yucca Herbaceous Association Pennisetum setaceum Herbaceous Alliance Fountain Grass Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4061

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous association occurs on flat to very steep, often southerly facing slopes at low elevations between 0 and 36 m. It is dominated solely by Pennisetum setaceum in the herbaceous layer. Malosma laurina, Eriogonum cinereum, and Yucca whipplei are characteristically found in the shrub layer at low cover, and Washingtonia sp. is infrequently in the tree layer at low cover. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–36 m, mean 12 m Aspect: variable, but often southeast or southwest Slope: range 0–60 degrees, mean 40.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): undulating or flat; variable, but often bottom to lower Litter Cover: range 15–15%, mean 15% Small Rock Cover: range 10–40%, mean 23.3% Large Rock Cover: range 5–15%, mean 9.7% Bare Ground: range 15–50%, mean 35% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: sand (class unknown) or medium loam Vegetation Description: Stands of the Pennisetum setaceum-Coreopsis gigantea-Yucca whipplei-Malosma laurina Herbaceous Association form an open to intermittent herbaceous layer (22–40%, mean 32.1%) at 0.01–1 m tall. The shrub layer is open (2–14%, mean 8.9%) at 0.01–5 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 30–49%, mean cover is 40.3%. In this association, the herbaceous layer is open to intermittent and is dominated solely by Pennisetum setaceum. Brassica nigra, Foeniculum vulgare, Carpobrotus edulis, Bromus madritensis, Malacothrix saxatilis, and Medicago polymorpha are occasionally included in this layer at sparse cover. The shrub layer characteristically includes Malosma laurina, Eriogonum cinereum, and Yucca whipplei and also usually includes Salvia mellifera, Coreopsis gigantea, and Rhus integrifolia. The tree layer infrequently includes Washingtonia sp. (introduced) as an emergent.

C1188-1/c

638

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Pennisetum setaceum-Coreopsis gigantea-Yucca whipplei-Malosma laurina Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub MALA6 ERCI5 YUWH SAME3 COGI RHIN2 OPLI3 ENCA BRCA3 ISAR LOSC2 ARCA11

Malosma laurina Eriogonum cinereum Yucca whipplei Salvia mellifera Coreopsis gigantea Rhus integrifolia Opuntia littoralis Encelia californica Brickellia californica Isomeris arborea Lotus scoparius Artemisia californica

100 86 86 71 71 57 43 43 29 29 29 29

2.9 1.1 0.9 0.5 0.3 1.0 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.1

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

PESE3 BRNI FOVU CAED3 BRMA3 MASA2 MEPO3

Pennisetum setaceum Brassica nigra Foeniculum vulgare Carpobrotus edulis Bromus madritensis Malacothrix saxatilis Medicago polymorpha

100 28.4 18.0 43 0.1 0.2 43 0.1 0.2 29 0.5 0.2 29 0.1 0.2 29 0.1 0.2 29 0.1 0.2

8.0 X X 2.0 X 3.0 X 1.0 1.0 2.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.2

Herb 40.0 X X X 0.2 X 0.2 X 3.0 X 0.2 X 0.2 0.2 X

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 7 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Pennisetum setaceum, Brassica nigra, Foeniculum vulgare, Carpobrotus edulis, Bromus madritensis, Medicago polymorpha, Melilotus, Avena barbata, Avena fatua, Bromus hordeaceus, Erodium, Euphorbia terracina, Malva parviflora, Melilotus indicus, Nicotiana glauca, Ricinus communis, Sonchus oleraceus Samples Used in Description: (n = 7) rap0512, rap0670, rap0882, rap1138, rap1197m, rap1203, rap2897rlv Comments: This is the first association defined from this nonnative alliance in California. It is the most typical expression of the alliance in the Santa Monica Mountains, found on steep coastal cliffs, bluffs, and road cuts, immediately adjacent to the Pacific Ocean; it has also been found on sand dunes along the immediate coast. Pennisetum setaceum is a dangerously invasive nonnative grass. Phases: None

C1188-1/c

639

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Fountain Grass-Giant Coreopsis-Chaparral Yucca Herbaceous Association None V. Herbaceous vegetation V.A. Perennial graminoid vegetation V.A.5. Temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N.d. Medium-Tall bunch temperate or subpolar grassland Pennisetum setaceum Herbaceous Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

None, this is a nonnative alliance. However, it may have some conservation value if localized or rare native species are associated with it. As this association increases throughout southern California, fewer and fewer natural coastal bluff and cliff communities will remain.

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. However, it is well understood to be commonly invasive along sea cliffs and road cuts from San Diego County to Santa Barbara County and has been noted inland as far as Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in San Diego County (Bossard et al. 2000). It has escaped from plantings (e.g., San Diego Wild Animal Park) and is now becoming a significant invasive. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Bossard et al. 2000

C1188-1/c

640

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phalaris aquatica Herbaceous Alliance Harding Grass Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4070

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous alliance occurs on flat to moderately steep slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 188 and 228 m. It is dominated by Phalaris aquatica in the herbaceous layer. Baccharis pilularis is sometimes found in the shrub layer at low cover. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone and Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 188–228 m, mean 205 m Aspect: variable Slope: range 0–9 degrees, mean 3.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat; bottom to lower Litter Cover: range 55–95%, mean 80% Small Rock Cover: no data Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: range 0–10%, mean 5% Parent Material: igneous Soil Texture: fine to moderately fine sandy or silty clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of this herbaceous alliance form an open to continuous herbaceous layer (25–77%, mean 49%) at 0.1–1 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse to open (0–5%, mean 1.3%) at 0–0.5 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 25–70%, mean cover is 48.7%. In this alliance, the herbaceous layer is open to continuous and is dominated by Phalaris aquatica. Avena fatua is occasionally included in this layer, and a variety of other herbs, such as Bromus diandrus, Sisyrinchium bellum, and Melilotus indicus, are infrequently present. The shrub layer occasionally includes Baccharis pilularis, and other shrubs may occur infrequently.

C1188-1/c

641

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phalaris aquatica Alliance Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub BAPI

Baccharis pilularis

33

0.5

0.2

3.0

PHAQ AVFA

Phalaris aquatica Avena fatua

100 38.2 18.0 60.0 X X X 33 0.4 0.2 2.0 X

Herb

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 6 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and the CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Phalaris aquatica, Avena fatua, Bromus diandrus, Melilotus indicus, Bromus hordeaceus, Bromus madritensis, Lolium multiflorum, Anagallis arvensis, Brassica, Euphorbia terracina, Foeniculum vulgare, Picris echioides Samples Used in Description: (n = 6) rap0040, rap0052m, rap0085, rap2531rlv, rap2894rlv, rap2895rlv Comments: In the Santa Monica Mountains, this vegetation alliance tends to favor moist low areas of grasslands including those with seasonally saturated soil. It seems to be found in areas that had experienced heavy grazing in the past. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Harding Grass Alliance None V. Herbaceous vegetation V.A. Perennial graminoid vegetation V.A.5. Temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural V.A.5.N.d. Medium-Tall bunch temperate or subpolar grassland Phalaris aquatica Herbaceous Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

None, introduced invasive exotic

Global Description Distribution: This alliance is not well sampled in California. However, it has been reported from several areas of coastal northern and central California including Colusa/Glen, Marin, Santa Clara, and Solano counties. C1188-1/c

642

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: The alliance has been introduced into California, while it is native to the Mediterranean region of Europe. In California, it has been found in inland sites below 800 m in elevation on gentle to moderately steep slopes with a thick layer and high surface cover of litter. Parent material is quite variable including volcanic, Fransciscan, serpentine, and alluvial, and soil is variable from coarse sandy loam to fine silty clay. It has been found in a variety of disturbed habitats including along levees in Suisun Marsh, upper slopes that were converted from chaparral vegetation in the north coast range, disturbed upper grassland slopes in central California, and so forth. Vegetation Description: This alliance is defined by Phalaris aquatica as the indicator species, with P. aquatica dominant or codominant with other nonnative species. One association has been described with P. aquatica co-occurring with Bromus hordeaceus and Centaurea solstitialis from the southern portion of the north coast ranges of California. Other species include annual forbs such as Clarkia sp., Galium sp., Erodium sp., Trifolium dubium, and Yabea microcarpa. A pure association of P. aquatica has been defined from Suisun Marsh in small stands along levees. An association of P. aquatica dominant to codominant with Avena barbata also occurs in the central coast south of San Jose, and characteristic species at low cover include Lolium multiflorum, Bromus hordeaceus, and Erodium sp. In southern California, P. aquatica has been found dominant, and Avena fatua was characteristic at low cover. Comments: This is aggressively invasive as nonnative grassland forming dense clumps in typically low-lying areas or disturbed areas (Bossard et al. 2000, Evens and San 2004, Jimerson et al. 2000, NatureServe et al. 2003a, Keeler-Wolf and Vaghti 2000). It is favored by frequent fire or clearing, and it appears to colonize and expand in areas formerly dominated by annual grassland, native Nassella grassland, or chaparral. References: Bossard et al. 2000, Evens and San 2004, Jimerson et al. 2000, NatureServe et al. 2003a, Keeler-Wolf and Vaghti 2000

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643

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salicornia virginica/Algae Herbaceous Association Pickelweed/Algae Herbaceous Association Salicornia virginica Herbaceous Alliance Pickleweed Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4528

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous association occurs on flat ground at low elevations between 1 and 3 m. It is dominated by algae in the herbaceous layer, and Salicornia virginica is characteristically found as a subdominant to codominant. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 1–3 m, mean 2 m Aspect: flat Slope: flat Topography (micro; macro): flat; bottom Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: no data Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: range 40–90%, mean 71.7% Parent Material: no data Soil Texture: sand to clay Vegetation Description: Stands of the Salicornia virginica/Algae Herbaceous Association form an open to intermittent herbaceous layer (15–56%, mean 36.6%) at 0.01–0.5 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse to open (0–8%, mean 1.6%) at 0–0.5 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 15–56%, mean cover is 37.8%. In this association, the herbaceous layer is open to intermittent and is dominated by algae, while Salicornia virginica is characteristically abundant and subdominant to codominant. Salicornia bigelovii and Triglochin concinnum are infrequently included in this layer at low cover. Suaeda taxifolia and Frankenia salina are infrequently present at low cover in the shrub layer.

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644

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salicornia virginica/Algae Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub SUCA FRSA

Suaeda taxifolia Frankenia salina

20 20

0.4 2.0 0.01 0.2

ALGAE SAVI SABI TRCO4

Algae Salicornia virginica Salicornia bigelovii Triglochin concinnum

100 28.0 10.0 100 10.8 5.0 20 0.4 2.0 20 0.01 0.2

2.0 0.2

Herb 50.0 X X 30.0 X X 2.0 0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: Suaeda taxifolia (synonym S. californica var. taxifolia) was found in 1 of 5 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-1. Global rank is G3?, and state rank is S2S3. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: None Samples Used in Description: (n = 5) rap0865, rap0870, rap0873, rap0875, rap2700 Comments: This is the more open expression of pickleweed marsh in Mugu Lagoon within the study area and seems to be found in some of the wettest portions of the marsh. It is unclear which species of the algae is (are) present, and it is also unclear how ecologically different this association is from other similar local Salicornia associations. There is the possibility that with further detailed analysis of nonvascular flora, this association could be lumped with others of the same alliance. At this point these stands are classified here because of their generally less dense cover of S. virginica and the presence of algal mats, which are visible at low tide. The field crews placed Salicornia spp. in the shrub layer when doing species cover and total shrub cover estimates, although many species in this genus are traditionally considered perennial herbaceous vegetation (UCB 2004, NatureServe 2005). Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

C1188-1/c

Pickelweed/Algae Herbaceous Association Coastal salt and brackish marsh (Holland 1986) V. Herbaceous vegetation V.B. Perennial forb vegetation V.B.2. Temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation V.B.2.N. Natural/Seminatural Intermittentently flooded perennial herbaceous vegetation Salicornia virginica Herbaceous Alliance 2

645

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S4?

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. It is likely to be found on other coastal salt marshes throughout California (Zedler 1982). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Holland 1986, Zedler 1982

C1188-1/c

646

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salicornia virginica-Brassica nigra Herbaceous Association Pickleweed-Black Mustard Herbaceous Association Salicornia virginica Herbaceous Alliance Pickleweed Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4529

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous association occurs on flat to gentle slopes of variable aspect at low elevations between 0 and 5 m. Brassica nigra is characteristically abundant in the herbaceous layer. Salicornia virginica is characteristically abundant in the shrub layer, and Frankenia salina is also often present at low cover in this layer. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–5 m, mean 2 m Aspect: frequently flat Slope: range 0–2 degrees, mean 0.7 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat; bottom Litter Cover: range 65–65%, mean 65% Small Rock Cover: range 0–1%, mean 0.3% Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: range 20–55%, mean 41.7% Parent Material: no data Soil Texture: moderately fine sandy to silty clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of the Salicornia virginica-Brassica nigra Herbaceous Association form an open to intermittent herbaceous layer (13–42%, mean 29.7%) at 0.01–1 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse to open (0–24%, mean 8.7%) at 0–5 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 30–43%, mean cover is 38.3%. In this association, the herbaceous layer is open to intermittent with Salicornia virginica dominant, and Brassica nigra is characteristically subdominant to codominant. Polypogon monspeliensis, Raphanus sativus, Carpobrotus edulis, Melilotus albus, Bromus madritensis, and Galium aparine are occasionally included in this layer. Frankenia salina, Atriplex lentiformis, Baccharis pilularis, and Myoporum laetum are often present in the shrub layer and usually at low cover.

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647

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salicornia virginica-Brassica nigra Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub FRSA ATLE BAPI MYLA5 BASA4 OPOR SAME5

Frankenia salina Atriplex lentiformis Baccharis pilularis Myoporum laetum Baccharis salicifolia Opuntia oricola Sambucus mexicana

67 50 50 50 33 33 33

1.0 2.7 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.1

1.0 3.0 0.2 15.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

SAVI BRNI POMO5 RASA2 CAED3 UNHE UNGR MEAL2 MELIL MENO2

Salicornia virginica Brassica nigra Polypogon monspeliensis Raphanus sativus Carpobrotus edulis Unknown herbs/forbs Unknown annual grass Melilotus albus Melilotus Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum Bromus madritensis Galium aparine

100 19.8 9.0 35.0 X X 83 6.2 2.0 15.0 X X X 50 0.8 1.0 2.0 X 50 0.1 0.2 0.2 X 33 4.0 1.0 23.0 X 33 1.2 1.0 6.0 33 0.8 2.0 3.0 33 0.5 1.0 2.0 X 33 0.4 0.2 2.0 X 33 0.2 0.2 1.0 X

X

Herb

BRMA3 GAAP2

33 33

0.1 0.1

0.2 0.2

0.2 0.2

X X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Polypogon monspeliensis, Myoporum laetum, Raphanus sativus, Carpobrotus edulis, Melilotus albus, Melilotus, Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum, Bromus madritensis, Galium aparine, Arundo donax, Bromus diandrus, Bromus hordeaceus, Carpobrotus chilensis, Cotula coronopifolia, Foeniculum vulgare, Marrubium vulgare, Urtica urens Samples Used in Description: (n = 6) rap0898, rap0900, rap2710, rap2711, rap2712, rap2778 Comments: This association represents the local expression of the coastal salt marsh edge, where adjacent weedy herbaceous vegetation borders upon it (Zedler 1982). The marsh edge position of this association is also indicated by the presence of several typically upland shrubby species such as Atriplex lentiformis, Baccharis pilularis, and Opuntia oricola. It is likely that such weedy marginal associations occur in other southern California coastal salt marshes and would be recognized with local stand level sampling. The field crews placed Salicornia spp. in the shrub layer when doing species cover and total shrub cover estimates, although many species in this genus are traditionally considered perennial herbaceous vegetation (UCB 2004, NatureServe 2005). Phases: None

C1188-1/c

648

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP

Pickleweed-Black Mustard Herbaceous Association Coastal salt and brackish marsh (Holland 1986) V. Herbaceous vegetation V.B. Perennial forb vegetation V.B.2. Temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP V.B.2.N. Natural/Seminatural FORMATION Intermittentently flooded perennial herbaceous vegetation ALLIANCE Salicornia virginica Herbaceous Alliance CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL: 2 ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RAN:

G4S4?

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Holland 1986, Zedler 1982

C1188-1/c

649

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salicornia virginica-Frankenia salina-Suaeda taxifolia (synonym Suaeda californica var. taxifolia) Herbaceous Association Pickleweed-Alkali Heath-Sea Blite Herbaceous Association Salicornia virginica Herbaceous Alliance Pickleweed Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4524

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous association occurs on flat to gently sloped ground at low elevations between 0 and 6 m. Salicornia virginica is characteristically abundant and dominant in the herbaceous layer, while Frankenia salina and Suaeda taxifolia are characteristically found in the shrub layer at low cover. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–6 m, mean 2 m Aspect: flat Slope: 0–2 degrees mean 0.3 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat; bottom Litter Cover: range 30–30%, mean 30% Small Rock Cover: no data Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: range 20–90%, mean 53.3% Parent Material: no data Soil Texture: sand to clay Vegetation Description: Stands of the Salicornia virginica-Frankenia salina-Suaeda taxifolia Herbaceous Association form an open to intermittent herbaceous layer (1–65%, mean 35.9%) at 0.01–0.5 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse to continuous (0–67%, mean 11.1%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 13–70%, mean cover is 47%. In this association, the herbaceous layer is open to intermittent and is dominated by Salicornia virginica. It also occasionally contains Distichlis spicata, Triglochin concinnum, and Limonium californicum at low cover. The shrub layer characteristically includes Frankenia salina and Suaeda taxifolia at low cover.

C1188-1/c

650

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salicornia virginica-Frankenia salina-Suaeda taxifolia Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub FRSA SUCA BAMA5 ATLE

Frankenia salina Suaeda taxifolia Batis maritima Atriplex lentiformis

89 78 56 22

5.4 1.0 3.1 0.01

0.2 18.0 0.2 6.0 0.2 19.0 0.2 0.2

X X

SAVI DISP TRCO4 LICA5 ALGAE MOLI

Salicornia virginica Distichlis spicata Triglochin concinnum Limonium californicum Algae Monanthochloe littoralis

100 34.5 1.0 67.0 39 0.7 0.2 8.0 39 0.2 0.2 2.0 39 0.1 0.2 0.2 28 0.9 0.2 10.0 22 0.5 0.2 7.0

X

Herb

Other Noteworthy Species: Abronia maritima was found in 1 of 18 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-2. Global rank is G4?, and state rank is S3?. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Suaeda taxifolia (synonym S. californica var. taxifolia) was found in 14 of 18 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-1. Global rank is G3?, and state rank is S2S3. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Arundo donax, Bromus madritensis, Melilotus indicus, Brassica, Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum, Myoporum laetum, Rumex crispus, Sonchus Samples Used in Description: (n = 18) rap0868, rap0874m, rap0878, rap0881, rap0905, rap0906, rap0909, rap2698, rap2699, rap2701, rap2702, rap2704, rap2705, rap2706, rap2708, rap2774, rap2775, rap2776 Comments: This association is probably the most extensive of this Salicornia Alliance locally. It was found to have significant variability ranging from stands strongly dominated by S. virginica to stands with little cover of this species to stands with codominance of the three nominate species. The field crews placed Salicornia in the shrub layer upon doing species cover and total shrub cover estimates, although many species in this genus are traditionally considered perennial herbaceous vegetation (UCB 2004, NatureServe 2005). Both Frankenia salina and Suaeda taxifolia occurred in about 80–90% of the stands averaging 1 to 5% cover, while Distichlis spicata occurred in less than 40% of the stands, thus separating this association from the Distichlis spicata-Salicornia virginica-Jaumea carnosa Herbaceous Association. It does not contain marsh edge species as does the S. virginica-Brassica nigra Association. The presence of Batis maritima in > 50% of the samples suggests that this is a core marsh association with less dry periods than those associations with high frequencies of Distichlis spicata.

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651

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Phases: Salicornia virginica-Frankenia salina-Batis maritima (Pickleweed-Alkali Heath-Saltwort) Phase [4526] Salicornia virginica-Suaeda taxifolia (Pickleweed-California Sea Blite) Phase [45201] Salicornia virginica-Frankenia salina-Suaeda taxifolia (Pickleweed-Alkali Heath-California Sea Blite [Provisional]) Phase [4524] COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Pickleweed-Alkali Heath-California Sea Blite Herbaceous Association Coastal Salt and Brackish Marsh (Holland 1986) V. Herbaceous vegetation V.B. Perennial forb vegetation V.B.2. Temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation V.B.2.N. Natural/Seminatural Intermittentently flooded perennial herbaceous vegetation Salicornia virginica Herbaceous Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G2S2?

Global Description Distribution: This association is only known from the Santa Monica Mountains region. Information about its global distribution is not available without additional inventory. It is likely to occur in other southern California salt marshes (Zedler 1982). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: See local description. Vegetation Description: See local description. Comments: See local description. References: Holland 1986, Zedler 1982

C1188-1/c

652

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salicornia virginica-Salicornia subterminalis Herbaceous Association Pickleweed-Parish's Glasswort Herbaceous Association Salicornia virginica Herbaceous Alliance Pickleweed Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4525

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous association occurs on flat ground at low elevations between 0 and 3 m. Salicornia subterminalis and Salicornia virginica are characteristically abundant in the herbaceous layer, and Brassica nigra is characteristically present at low cover. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Western Fog Zone and Immediate Coast regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–3 m, mean 2 m Aspect: flat Slope: no data Topography (micro; macro): flat; bottom Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: no data Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: range 60–60%, mean 60% Parent Material: no data Soil Texture: fine to moderately fine silty clay Vegetation Description: Stands of the Salicornia virginica-Salicornia subterminalis Herbaceous Association form an open herbaceous layer (4–22%, mean 12.3%) at 0.01–0.5 m tall. The shrub layer is sparse to open (0–26%, mean 6.5%) at 0–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 10–30%, mean cover is 18.8%. In this association, the herbaceous layer is open with Salicornia subterminalis and Salicornia virginica characteristically abundant and codominant. Sometimes S. subterminalis can dominate and S. virginica subdominate. Brassica nigra is characteristically present at low cover, and Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum is often present. Frankenia salina, Batis maritima, Atriplex lentiformis, and Suaeda taxifolia are also occasionally found in the shrub layer.

C1188-1/c

653

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Salicornia virginica-Salicornia subterminalis Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub FRSA BAMA5 ATLE SUCA

Frankenia salina Batis maritima Atriplex lentiformis Suaeda taxifolia

50 25 25 25

0.8 1.0 0.1 0.1

0.2 4.0 0.2 0.2

3.0 4.0 0.2 0.2

SASU2 BRNI SAVI MENO2

Salicornia subterminalis Brassica nigra Salicornia virginica Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum Bromus Unknown annual grass Bromus diandrus Monanthochloe littoralis Carpobrotus chilensis Galium aparine Lactuca serriola Melilotus albus

100 100 75 50

7.8 0.4 6.5 1.0

4.0 14.0 X X 0.2 1.0 X X 2.0 12.0 X X 0.2 4.0 X

25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25

0.8 0.5 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1

3.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Herb

BROMU UNGR BRDI3 MOLI CACH38 GAAP2 LASE MEAL2

3.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

X X X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Suaeda taxifolia (synonym S. californica var. taxifolia) was found in 1 of 4 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-1. Global rank is G3?, and state rank is S2S3. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Nonnative Species: Brassica nigra, Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum, Bromus diandrus, Carpobrotus chilensis, Galium aparine, Lactuca serriola, Melilotus albus Samples Used in Description: (n = 4) rap0877, rap0901, rap2703, rap2709 Comments: Crews observed this association in areas where salt deposits accumulate into salt pans. The field crews placed the two Salicornia spp. in the shrub layer upon doing species cover and total shrub cover estimates, although these species in this genus are traditionally considered perennial herbaceous vegetation (UCB 2004, NatureServe 2005). This provisional association is very closely related to the Salicornia virginica-Brassica nigra Association, differing only in the higher frequency of the regional salt marsh indicator Salicornia subterminalis. However, this association mixed Salicornia is also found in the San Dieguito Lagoon, where Salicornia subterminalis is subdominant to codominant with S. virginica. Phases: None. However, this is potentially a phase of the Salicornia virginica-Brassica nigra Association.

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654

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Pickleweed-Parish's Glasswort Herbaceous Association Coastal Salt and Brackish Marsh (Holland 1986) V. Herbaceous vegetation V.B. Perennial forb vegetation V.B.2. Temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation V.B.2.N. Natural/Seminatural Intermittentently flooded perennial herbaceous vegetation Salicornia virginica Herbaceous Alliance 2

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G3S3

Global Description Distribution: This association has been found in coastal salt marshes in southern California including Ventura and San Diego counties (Evens and San 2005, Zedler 1982). Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: This association has been observed in coastal salt marshes with silty clay or silty loam alluvial soils, while being mucky, and where salt deposits have accumulated. They are on flat to gentle bottoms such as lagoons. Litter and fine sediments are the prevalent ground surface. Vegetation Description: Salicornia virginica codominates with Salicornia subterminalis, while sometimes either Salicornia species is subdominant. Other species may occur at low cover including Frankenia salina, Atriplex lentiformis, Mesembryanthemum spp., Carpobrotus chilensis, Bromus diandrus, Distichlis spicata, and Isocoma menziesii. Comments: Additional sampling is needed to further verify this association's distribution and variation. References: Evens and San 2005, Holland 1986, Zedler 1982

C1188-1/c

655

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Scirpus acutus-Scirpus californicus Herbaceous Alliance California Bulrush Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4410

Local Description Summary: Three stands of this herbaceous alliance occur on flat to gentle slopes at low elevations between 0 and 414 m. Scirpus californicus and/or S. acutus are characteristically abundant in the herbaceous layer. Salix lasiolepis is often found in the shrub layer at low cover. Distribution: This alliance is sampled in the Immediate Coast region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 0–414 m, mean 139.3 m Aspect: variable to flat Slope: 0–2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat; bottom Litter Cover: no data Small Rock Cover: no data Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: range 15–15%, mean 15% Parent Material: depositional Soil Texture: sand (class unknown) Vegetation Description: Stands of this herbaceous alliance form an intermittent to continuous herbaceous layer (48–70%, mean 61%) at 1–5 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 48–70%, mean cover is 61%. In this alliance, Scirpus californicus and/or S. acutus may be abundant in the herbaceous layer. In the three stands sampled, S. californicus is characteristic and most abundant. Other herbs, such as Distichlis spicata, Juncus sp., and Typha sp., are sometimes present. The shrub layer often includes Salix lasiolepis.

C1188-1/c

656

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Scirpus acutus-S. californicus Alliance Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub SALA6-M

Salix lasiolepis

67

0.1

0.2

SCCA SCACO4 CORTA AMPS CAMA CYDA DISP JUNCU LEMNA POAM8 RUCR TYPHA

Scirpus californicus 100 44.3 33.0 Scirpus acutus var. occidentalis 67 6.7 5.0 Cortaderia 33 0.3 1.0 Ambrosia psilostachya 33 0.1 0.2 Cakile maritima 33 0.1 0.2 Cynodon dactylon 33 0.1 0.2 Distichlis spicata 33 0.1 0.2 Juncus 33 0.1 0.2 Lemna 33 0.1 0.2 Polygonum amphibium 33 0.1 0.2 Rumex crispus 33 0.1 0.2 Typha 33 0.1 0.2

0.2 X

Herb 60.0 X X 15.0 1.0 X 0.2 0.2 X 0.2 X 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 X 0.2

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Cortaderia, Cakile maritima, Cynodon dactylon, Rumex crispus Samples Used in Description: (n = 3) rap1013, rap2595, rap2614 Comments: These stands are typically small in the study area, and they occur in perennial wetlands (e.g., lake margins, marshes, stream channels). In some cases, the phenology was not ideal to identify the species of Scirpus. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Common Bulrush-California Bulrush Alliance Scirpus acutus-(Scirpus tabernaemontani) Semipermanently Flooded Herbaceous Alliance V. Herbaceous vegetation V.A. Perennial graminoid vegetation V.A.5. Temperate or subpolar grassland Natural/Seminatural V.A.5.N.l. Semipermanently flooded temperate or subpolar grassland Scirpus acutus-Scirpus californicus Herbaceous Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S5

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Global Description Distribution: This Scirpus acutus-S. californicus Alliance is found in the midwest region (Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Minnesota), in the western region (California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Montana), and in Canada (British Columbia, southern Manitoba, and northwestern Ontario). Nations: United States, Canada, Mexico States or Provinces: USA: NE, IA, SD, ND, MN, CA, OR, WA, ID, MT Canada: BC, southern Manitoba, and northwestern Ontario Environmental Description: This relatively widespread alliance occurs on pond and lake margins and in backwater areas. It also occupies basins where the water table may remain relatively high but can drop below the soil surface late in the growing season. Elevations range from sea level in coastal areas to 2,025 m in Montana. Stands of this alliance are flooded for most or all of the growing season. Stands can have water from 0 (exposed soil) to approximately 1.5 m deep but usually are less than 1 m. Vegetation Description: Vegetation is characterized by medium to tall graminoids that typically range from 1 to more than 2 m. The vegetation is moderately dense to dense. Some stands are heavily dominated by one or two Scirpus (S. acutus or S. californicus), while others have several graminoids common throughout the stand. In the United States, the most abundant species are typically Scirpus acutus, S. fluviatilis, and S. tabernaemontani. Species composition and abundance can vary from year to year depending mostly on water level fluctuations. In most years, typical species include Lemna spp., Phragmites australis, Scirpus americanus (in alkaline stands), Triglochin maritimum (in alkaline stands), Typha latifolia, and Utricularia macrorhiza. Potamogeton species often occur in the deeper parts of stands of this alliance, where emergent species are not densely packed. Shrubs, such as Salix spp., are not common but may become established in shallow water areas. During droughts, species more tolerant of low water, such as Polygonum amphibium, may invade and alter the species composition of stands of this alliance. Comments: Traditionally, Scirpus californicus has not been included as a diagnostic component of this alliance, but in many stands in California both S. acutus and S. californica co-occur or the two species appear to be ecologically interchangeable, especially in Suisun Marsh and southern California (Evens and San 2005, Keeler-Wolf and Vaghti 2000, Reid et al. 1999, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Weaver 1960). References: Evens and San 2005, Keeler-Wolf and Vaghti 2000, Reid et al. 1999, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Weaver 1960

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Selaginella bigelovii/Eriogonum fasciculatum Association Bushy Spike Moss/California Buckwheat Association Selaginella bigelovii Herbaceous Alliance Bushy Spike Moss Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4811

Local Description Summary: This herbaceous association occurs on moderately steep to very steep slopes of variable aspect at low to mid elevations between 81 and 862 m. It is dominated by Selaginella bigelovii in the low layer. Eriogonum fasciculatum is characteristically abundant in the shrub layer, and Quercus agrifolia, Schinus molle, and Eucalyptus spp. are infrequently found in the tree layer at low cover. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Upper Elevation Santa Monica Mountains, Western Fog Zone, Eastern Urban, Simi Hills Inland, Dry Inland, and Lower Elevation Inland Santa Monica Mountains regions of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: range 81–862 m, mean 464.4 m Aspect: variable (southwest and northwest most common) Slope: range 7–55 degrees, mean 29.5 degrees Topography (micro; macro): variable, but usually undulating; variable Litter Cover: range 1–20%, mean 7.6% Small Rock Cover: range 0–75%, mean 22.3% Large Rock Cover: range 8–95%, mean 44.5% Bare Ground: range 1–65%, mean 14.3% Parent Material: often igneous, infrequently sedimentary or depositional Soil Texture: moderately fine clay loam or sandy clay loam Vegetation Description: Stands of the Selaginella bigelovii/Eriogonum fasciculatum Association form an open to intermittent cryptogam layer (2–48%, mean 15.5%) at 0.01–1 m tall. The shrub layer is open (1–28%, mean 10.9%) at 0–5 m tall. Trees are infrequently emergent (0–2% cover, mean 0.1%) with hardwoods at 0–10 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 4–49%, mean cover is 26.1%. In this association, Selaginella bigelovii is characteristically abundant in the cryptogam layer where lichens and mosses are also sometimes found. The herbaceous layer is diverse and can include many native and nonnative species. Eriogonum fasciculatum is characteristically common in the shrub layer at low cover. Other shrubs such as Yucca whipplei, Adenostoma fasciculatum, Artemisia californica, Malosma laurina, Mimulus aurantiacus, and Ceanothus crassifolius are occasionally present at low cover. The tree layer infrequently includes Quercus agrifolia, Schinus molle, and Eucalyptus spp. as sparse emergent trees.

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Selaginella bigelovii/Eriogonum fasciculatum Association Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Shrub ERFA2 YUWH ADFA ARCA11 MALA6 MIAU CECR ERCI5 RHIN2 ADSP LOSC2 SAME3

Eriogonum fasciculatum Yucca whipplei Adenostoma fasciculatum Artemisia californica Malosma laurina Mimulus aurantiacus Ceanothus crassifolius Eriogonum cinereum Rhus integrifolia Adenostoma sparsifolium Lotus scoparius Salvia mellifera

97 50 47 40 37 30 27 20 20 20 20 20

3.7 0.5 1.0 0.8 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.4 0.4 0.3 0.3 0.2

0.2 10.0 X X 0.2 5.0 0.2 5.0 0.2 5.0 0.2 2.5 0.2 4.0 0.2 4.0 0.2 7.5 0.2 3.0 0.2 4.0 0.2 4.0 0.2 4.0

Bromus madritensis Bromus diandrus Avena Bromus Dudleya lanceolata Lessingia filaginifolia

33 27 23 20 20 20

0.4 0.4 1.0 0.7 0.1 0.01

0.2 5.0 0.2 4.0 0.2 15.0 0.2 6.0 0.2 3.0 0.2 0.2

Selaginella bigelovii Lichen Moss

100 47 23

7.1 1.9 0.1

0.2 45.0 X X 0.2 10.0 0.2 2.0

Herb BRMA3 BRDI3 AVENA BROMU DULA LEFI11 Cryptogam SEBI LICHEN MOSS

X X X

Other Noteworthy Species: Calochortus catalinae was found in 1 of 30 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and the CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Delphinium parryi was found in 1 of 30 surveys of this plant community, which may be the rare D. parryi subsp. blochmaniae. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and the CNPS R-E-D Code is 3-2-3. Global rank is G4T2, and state rank is S2.2. Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Eriogonum crocatum was found in 4 of 30 surveys of this plant community. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 1B, and the CNPS R-E-D Code is 2-2-3. Global rank is G2, and state rank is S2.1. Federal listing is Species of Concern, and state listing is Rare (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004). Leptodactylon californicum was found in 1 of 30 surveys of this plant community, which may be the rare species L. C. subsp. tomentosum. Regionally, the park considers this species as Rare. CNPS ranks this species as List 4, and CNPS R-E-D Code is 1-2-3. Global rank is G5T3, and state rank is S3.2. Federal listing is none, and state listing is none (CNPS 2005, SAMO 2004).

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Nonnative Species: Bromus madritensis, Bromus diandrus, Avena, Bromus hordeaceus, Avena fatua, Avena barbata, Brassica nigra, Erodium cicutarium, Senecio vulgaris, Silene gallica, Centaurea melitensis, Galium aparine, Lolium multiflorum, Schinus molle, Erodium, Carduus pycnocephalus, Eucalyptus, Hypochaeris, Lamarckia aurea, Salsola tragus Samples Used in Description: (n = 30) AA0031cc, AA0351cc, AA0434, AA0742cc, AA0747cc, AA0749cc, AA1212, rap0370m, rap0603, rap0605, rap0726, rap0792, rap0793, rap0794m, rap1495, rap1534, rap1618, rap1786, rap2088, rap2222, rap2224, rap2259, rap2287, rap2323, rap2584, rap2652, rap2759, rap2764, rap2765, rap2812 Comments: This is a characteristic rock outcrop association of both volcanic and sedimentary outcrops in the study area. It typically occurs on relatively gently to moderately sloping slabs of rock and over time may form a thin to moderately thick mat of intertwined roots and rhizomes. These catch soil and dust and build up enough soil to supply substrate for other herbaceous species. The presence of a Selaginella bigelovii Alliance has not been identified so far in the national vegetation classification system. These herbaceous stands are visible on outcrops at a distance and often show up as dark mats with emergent drying grass stems and scattered shrubs. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM FORMATION CLASS FORMATION SUBCLASS FORMATION GROUP FORMATION SUBGROUP FORMATION NAME ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Bushy Spike Moss/California Buckwheat Herbaceous Association None V. Herbaceous vegetation V.B. Perennial forb vegetation V.B.2. Temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation V.B.2.N. Natural/Seminatural temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation V.B.2.N.b. Low temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation Selaginella bigelovii Herbaceous Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G4S3

Global Description Distribution: It is likely that this association and Selaginella bigelovii Alliance will prove to be fairly widespread in southern California along expansive rocky substrates including on some of the offshore islands. For example, sampling in inland San Diego County represented one stand of this Selaginella bigelovii/Eriogonum fasciculatum Association on south-facing granitoid rocky slopes. Further anecdotal observation suggests that this association may occur in several places in coastal southern California such as the Santa Susana Mountains and the San Gabriel Mountains.

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Nations: United States States or Provinces: CA Environmental Description: This association is characteristically found on exposed rock outcrops that are usually somewhat steep to steep slopes of igneous or sedimentary parent material. Vegetation Description: Stands contain Selaginella bigelovii usually as dominant at more than 10% cover. Other cryptogams may be present such as moss and lichen. The herbaceous layer is diverse and can include many native and nonnative species including Dudleya spp., Lessingia filaginifolia, Phacelia spp., Bromus madritensis, and Avena spp. Low woody shrubs and subshrubs are present (usually well under 10% cover) but lower in cover than the average Selaginella cover. Eriogonum fasciculatum is characteristically common in the shrub layer at low cover. Other shrubs may include Yucca whipplei, Artemisia californica, and Adenostoma fasciculatum. Comments: Other Selaginella alliances (e.g., S. Selaginella [tortipila, rupestris] Alliance; Sedum nuttallianum Sparsely Vegetated Alliance) are known from the national vegetation classification (NatureServe 2005). However, the S. bigelovii Alliance is the first to be described from California (Evens and San 2005). References: Evens and San 2005, NatureServe 2005

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Typha sp. Herbaceous Alliance Cattail Herbaceous Alliance Mapping Code: 4420

Local Description Summary: One stand of this alliance occurs on relatively flat land at low elevation, in wetland habitats such as pond margins and coastal lagoons. It is dominated by Typha sp. in the herbaceous layer and has no shrubs or trees. Distribution: This association is sampled in the Immediate Coast region of the study area. Environmental Description: Elevation: no data Aspect: flat Slope: 2 degrees Topography (micro; macro): flat; bottom Litter Cover 80% Small Rock Cover: no data Large Rock Cover: no data Bare Ground: no data Parent Material: depositional Soil Texture: sand (class unknown) Vegetation Description: One stand of this herbaceous alliance forms an intermittent herbaceous layer (60%) at 0.5–1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is 60%. In this stand, the herbaceous layer is intermittent and dominated by Typha. Scirpus californicus, Cakile maritime, and Distichlis spicata are also included in this layer at relatively low cover. Typha sp. Alliance Layer Code

Species Name

Con Avg Min Max A C N

Herb TYPHA SCCA CAMA CORTA DISP RUCR

Typha Scirpus californicus Cakile maritima Cortaderia Distichlis spicata Rumex crispus

100 55.0 55.0 100 3.0 3.0 100 0.2 0.2 100 0.2 0.2 100 0.2 0.2 100 0.2 0.2

55.0 X X 3.0 X 0.2 X X 0.2 X X 0.2 X 0.2 X X

Other Noteworthy Species: None Nonnative Species: Cakile maritima, Cortaderia, Rumex crispus

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Samples Used in Description: (n = 1) rap2615 Comments: Typha stands are uncommon in small and local stands within the study area. They may occur in ponds, slow moving stretches of creeks, or along borders of coastal lagoons. Phases: None COMMON NAME SYNONYM PHYSIOGNOMIC CLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBCLASS PHYSIOGNOMIC GROUP PHYSIOGNOMIC SUBGROUP FORMATION ALLIANCE CLASSIFICATION CONFIDENCE LEVEL

Cattail Alliance None V. Herbaceous vegetation V.A. Perennial graminoid vegetation V.A.5. Temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N. Natural/Seminatural V.A.5.N.l. Semipermanently flooded temperate or subpolar grassland Typha sp. Herbaceous Alliance 1

ECOLOGICAL REGIONS

261Bf Santa Monica Mountains, 261Be Simi ValleySanta Susana Mountains

CONSERVATION STATUS RANK

G5S5

Global Description Distribution: This alliance is found at low to moderate elevations in virtually every state in the United States and probably most Canadian provinces. Nations: United States, Canada, Mexico States or Provinces: virtually all states and provinces in North America Environmental Description: This alliance is found most commonly along lake or pond margins, by slow-moving ditches, in shallow basins, adjacent to stream or river channels, in wet mud, in oxbows, and occasionally in river backwaters. Elevations range from near sea level to around 2,000 m in Colorado. Sites where this alliance occur are typically semipermanently flooded, inundated with 30 to 100 cm of water throughout the year. Lacustrine cattail marshes typically have a muck-bottom zone bordering the shoreline, where cattails are rooted in the bottom substrate and a floating mat zone where the roots grow suspended in a buoyant peaty mat. Typha angustifolia can grow in deeper water compared to Typha latifolia, although both species reach maximum growth at a water depth of 50 cm. Vegetation Description: Vegetation is characterized by Typha as the main dominant species including T. angustifolia, T. latifolia, and/or T. domingensis (Hansen et al. 1995, Reid et al. 1999, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf

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1995). Other wetland graminoids or forb species may be present at low cover including Cyperus sp., Scirpus californicus, and Rumex sp. Typha species are prolific seed producers, spreading rapidly to become the early colonizers of wet mineral soil, and will persist under wet conditions. Roots and lower stems are well adapted to prolonged submergence, but periods of drawdown are required for seed germination to occur. Comments: None References: Hansen et al. 1995, Reid et al. 1999, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

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LITERATURE CITED

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Bossard, C. C., J. M. Randall, and M. C. Hoshosvky, eds. 2000. Invasive Plants of California Wildlands. University of California Press. Berkeley, CA. Accessed May 2005 from http://groups.ucanr.org/ceppc/Invasive_Plants_of_California's_Wildlands. Boyd, S., T. S. Ross, and D. Bramlet. 1995. Vascular Flora of the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness Area, Cleveland National Forest, CA. Aliso. 14(2):109–139. Braun-Blanquet, J. 1932/1951. Plant Sociology: The Study of Plant Communities. McGraw-Hill. New York, NY. California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 1998. Vegetation Mapping of Anza-Borrego Desert Sate Park and Environs. A report to the California Department of Parks and Recreation, Natural Heritage Division. Sacramento, CA. California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2000. Vegetation Mapping of Suisun Marsh, Solano County California. Report prepared for California Department of Water Resources, Wildlife and Habitat Data Analysis Branch. Sacramento, CA. California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2005. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (online edition, v6-05a). California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. Accessed on Feb. 2005 from http://www.cnps.org/inventory. Campbell, B. 1980. Some mixed hardwood forest communities of the coastal ranges of southern California. Phytocoenologia. 8:297– 320. Desimone, S. A. and J. H Burk. 1992. Local variation in floristics and distributional factors in California coastal sage scrub. Madroño. 39:170– 188. Dufrene, M. and P. Legendre. 1997. Species assemblages and indicator species: the need for a flexible asymmetrical approach. Ecological Monographs. 67:345–366. Ertter, B. and M. L. Bowerman. 2002. The flowering plants and ferns of Mount Diablo California. California Native Plant Society. Berkeley, CA.

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Evens, J. M., A. Klein, J. Taylor, T. Keeler-Wolf, and D. Hickson. 2005. Vegetation Classification and Descriptions of the Clear Creek Management Area, Joaquin Ridge, Monocline Ridge, and Environs in San Benito and Western Fresno Counties, California. Draft report. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. Evens, J. M. and S. San. 2004. Vegetation associations of a serpentine area: Coyote Ridge, Santa Clara County, California. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. Evens, J. M. and S. San. 2005. Vegetation alliances of the San Dieguito River Park region, San Diego County, California. DRAFT. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. Evens, J. M., S. San, and J. Taylor. 2004. Vegetation classification and mapping of Peoria Wildlife Area, South of New Melones Lake, Tuolumne County, CA. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. Feidler, W. R. and R. A. Leidy. 1987. Plant communities of Ring Mountain Preserve, Marin County, California. Madroño. 34:173–192. Ferren, W. R. 1989. Recent research on and new management issues for southern California estuarine wetlands. In: A. A. Schoenherr, ed. Endangered plant communities of southern California. Southern California Botanists, California State University. Fullerton, CA. 55–79. Franklin, J. 1998. "Predicting the Distribution of Shrub Species in Southern California from Climate and Terrain-Derived Variables. Journal of Vegetation Science. 9:733–748. Gauch, H. G. 1982. Multivariate Analysis in Community Ecology. Cambridge University Press. Cambridge, U.K. Gordon, H. J. and T. C. White. 1994. Ecological guide to southern California chaparral plant series. Technical Publication R5-ECOL-TP-005. U.S. Department of Agriculture-U.S. Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region. San Francisco, CA. Grossman, D. H., K. Goodin, M. Anderson, P. Bourgeron, M. T. Bryer, R. Crawford, L. Engelking, D. Faber-Langendoen, M. Gallyoun, S. Landaal, K. Metzler, K. D. Patterson, M. Pyne, M. Reid, L. Sneddon, and A. S. Weakley. 1998. International classification of ecological

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communities: Terrestrial vegetation of the United States. The Nature Conservancy. Arlington, Virginia. Hanes, T. L. 1976. Vegetation Types of the San Gabriel Mountains. In: J. Latting, ed. Plant Communities of Southern California. California Native Plant Society. Berkeley, CA. 65–76. Hansen, P. L., R. D. Pfister, K. Boggs, B. J. Cook, J. Joy, and D. K. Hinckley. 1995. Classification and management of Montana's riparian and wetland sites. Montana Forest and Conservation Experiment Station, School of Forestry, University of Montana, Miscellaneous Publication No. 54. 646 pp. + posters. Haultain, S. In publication. Vegetation Mapping and Classification in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. National Parks Service. Three Rivers, CA. Heady, J. F., T. C. Foin, M. M. Hektner, D. W. Taylor, M. G. Barbour, and W. J. Barry. 1977. Coastal prairie and northern coastal scrub. In: M. G. Barbour and J. Major, eds. Terrestrial Vegetation of California. WileyInterscience, reprinted by California Native Plant Society, 1998. Sacramento, CA. 733–760. Hickman, J. C., ed. 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. University of California Press. Berkeley, CA. Hill, M. O. 1979. TWINSPAN: a Fortran program for arranging multivariate data in an ordered two-way table by classification of the individuals and attributes. Section of ecology and systematics, Cornell University. Ithaca, NY. Hoagland, B. 2000. The vegetation of Oklahoma: A classification for landscape mapping and conservation planning. The Southwestern Naturalist. 45(4):385–420. Holland, R. F. 1986. Preliminary descriptions of the terrestrial natural communities of California. Unpublished document, California Department of Fish and Game, Natural Heritage Division. Sacramento, CA. Holstein, G. 2001. Pre-agricultural grassland in central California. Madroño. 48:253–264.

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Jimerson, T. M., L. D. Hoover, E. A. McGee, G. DeNitto, and R. M. Creasy. 1995. A field guide to serpentine plant associations and sensitive plants in northwestern California. Technical Publication R5-ECOL-TP-006. U.S. Department of Agriculture-U.S. Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region. San Francisco, CA. Jimerson, T. M, J. W. Menke, S. K. Carothers, M. P. Murray, V. VanSickle, and K. H. McClellan. 2000. Field Guide to the Rangeland Vegetation Types of the Northern Province. USDA U.S. Forest Service General Technical Report R5-ECOL-TP-014, Pacific Southwest Region. Keeler-Wolf, T. 1990. Ecological Surveys of Forest Service Research Natural Areas in California. General Technical Report. PSW-125. USDA Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station. Berkeley, CA. Keeler-Wolf, T., K. Lewis, and C. Roye. 1997. The definition and location of central California Sycamore alluvial woodland. Unpublished final report. State of California, The Resources Agency, Department of Fish and Game. Sacramento, CA. Keeler-Wolf, T., C. Roye, and K. Lewis. 1998. Vegetation mapping and classification of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California. Unpublished report on file at California Department of Fish and Game, Natural Diversity Database. Sacramento, CA. Keeler-Wolf, T. and M. Vaghti. 2000. Vegetation Mapping of Suisun Marsh, Solano County California. A Report to the California Department of Water Resources. Available from Wildlife and Habitat Data Analysis Branch. Department of Fish and Game. Sacramento, CA. Keeler-Wolf, T. S. San, and M. Schindel. (2003). Classification of the Vegetation of Yosemite National Park and Surrounding Environs in Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera and Mono Counties, California. Unpublished report: NatureServe in Cooperation with the California Native Plant Society and California Natural Heritage Program Wildlife and Habitat Data Analysis Branch, California Department of Fish and Game, 1807 13th Street, Room 202, Sacramento, CA 95814. Keeley, J. E. 1989. The California valley grassland. In: A. A. Schoenherr, ed. Endangered plant communities of southern California. Southern California Botanists, California State University. Fullerton, CA. 3–23.

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Keeley, J. E. 2002. "Native American impacts on fire regimes of the California coastal ranges". Journal of Biogeography. 29:303–320. Kirkpatrick, J. B. and C. F. Hutchinson. 1977. The community composition of California coastal sage scrub. Vegetatio. 35:21–33. Klein, A. and J. M. Evens. 2005. Vegetation Alliances of Western Riverside County, California. DRAFT. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. Malanson, G. P. 1984. Fire history and patterns of Venturan subassociation of Californian coastal sage scrub. Vegetatio. 57:121–128. Manning, M. E. and W. G. Padgett 1995. Riparian community type classification for Humboldt and Toiyabe National Forests, Nevada and Eastern California. USDA Forest Service Intermountain Region. 306. Marion, L. H. 1943. The distribution of Adenostoma sparsifolium. The American Midland Naturalist. 29:106–116. McCune, B. and J. B. Grace. 2002. Analysis of Ecological Communities. MjM Software. Gleneden Beach, OR. McCune, B. and M. J. Mefford. 1997. Multivariate analysis of ecological data. Version 3.14. MJM Software. Gleneden Beach, OR. Meier, L. 1979. A vegetative survey of the Fern Canyon Research Natural Area, San Dimas Experimental Forest. Unpublished report. USDA, Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station. Berkeley, CA. Miles, S. R. and C. B. Goudey. 1997. Ecological subregions of California. USDA Forest Service. Technical Report R5-EM-TP-005. Pacific Southwest Region. San Francisco, CA. Minnich, R. A. 1976. Vegetation of the San Bernardino Mountains. In: J. Latting, ed. Plant Communities of Southern California. California Native Plant Society. Berkeley, CA. 99–125. Munz, P. A. 1974. A flora of southern California. University of California Press. Berkeley, CA.

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NatureServe (Association for Biodiversity Information), California Native Plant Society, and California Department of Fish and Game. 2003a. Classification of the Vegetation of Point Reyes National Seashore Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Samuel P. Taylor, Mount Tamalpais, and Tomales State Parks, Marin, San Francisco, and San Mateo Counties, California. California Department of Fish and Game-Wildlife and Habitat Data Analysis Branch. Sacramento, CA. NatureServe (Association for Biodiversity Information), California Native Plant Society, and California Department of Fish and Game. 2003b. Classification of the Vegetation of Yosemite National Park and Surrounding Environs in Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera and Mono Counties, California. California Department of Fish and Game-Wildlife and Habitat Data Analysis Branch. Sacramento, CA. NatureServe. 2005. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 4.4. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. Accessed MarchJuly, 2005 from http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. O'Leary, J. F. 1989. California coastal sage scrub: general characteristics and considerations for biological conservation. In: A. A. Schoenherr, ed. Endangered plant communities of southern California. Southern California Botanists, California State University. Fullerton, CA. 24–41. Padgett, W. G., A. P. Youngblood, and A. H. Winward. 1989. Riparian community type classification in Utah and southeastern Idaho. USDA Forest Service Intermountain Region, Report R4-Eco-89-01. Ogden, UT. 191. Parker, K. C. 1991. "Topography, substrate, and vegetation patterns in the northern Sonoran Desert" Journal of Biogeography. 18:151-163. Parker, V. T. 1990. The vegetation of the Mount Tamalpais watershed of the Marin Municipal Water District and those on the adjacent lands of the Marin County Open Space District. Unpublished report. Marin Municipal Water District. San Rafael, CA. Peniado, M., F. Alcaraz, J. Delgadillo, M. De La Cruz, J. Alvarez, and J .L. Aquirre, 1994. The coastal salt marshes of California and Baja California. Vegetatio. 110:55–66. Pickart, A. J. and J. O. Sawyer. 1998. Ecology and Restoration of Northern California Coastal Dunes, Humboldt County, California. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA.

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Potter, D. A. 2003. Riparian Community Type Classification for the West Slope Central and Southern Sierra Nevada, California. DRAFT. Pacific Southwest Region. Berkeley, CA. Reid, M. S., K. A. Schulz, P. J. Comer, M. H. Schindel, D. R. Culver, D. A. Sarr, and M. C. Damm. 1999. An alliance level classification of vegetation of the coterminous western United States. The Nature Conservancy, Western Conservation Science Department. Boulder, Colorado. A report to the University of Idaho Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and National Gap Analysis Program. Reiser, C. H. 2001. Rare Plants of San Diego County. Unpublished. Aquafir Press. San Diego, CA. Rivas-Martinez, S. 1997. Syntaxanomical synopsis of the potential natural communities of North America, I. Itinera Geobotanica. 10:5–148. Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SAMO). 2004. Rare and Endangered Plants in the Santa Monica Mountains and Simi Hills. Unpublished digital file from J. Tiszler (SAMO Sensitive Plants 7-04 for ESRI.xls). National Park Service. Thousand Oaks, CA. Sawyer, J. O. and T. Keeler-Wolf. 1995. A Manual of California Vegetation. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. Sawyer, J. O, T. Keeler-Wolf, and J. M. Evens 2006 (MS). Manual of California Vegetation Second Edition. Unpublished manuscript in process by authors. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. Sharsmith, H. K. 1982. Flora of the Mount Hamilton Range of California (special publication number 6). California Native Plant Society. Berkeley, CA. Shuford, W. D. and I. C. Timossii. 1989. Plant Communities of Marin County. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. Smith, S. 1998. Riparian Community Type Classification for National Forest in Northeastern California: First Approximation. USDA Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station. Berkeley, CA. Spolsky, A. M. 1979. An overview of the plant communities of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Unpublished report. State of California, The Resources Agency, Department of Parks and Recreation, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Borrego Springs, CA.

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Taylor, R. 2004. A natural history of coastal sage scrub in southern California: regional floristic patterns and relations to physical geography, how it changes over time, and how well reserves represent its biodiversity. Ph.D. dissertation. University of California, Santa Barbara. 215 pp. Thomas, K., J. Franklin, T. Keeler-Wolf, and P. Stine, 2004. Mojave Desert Ecosystem Program Central Mojave Vegetation Database. Final Report. USGS, Western Ecological Research Center and Southwest Biological Science Center. Sacramento, CA. Colorado Plateau Field Station. Flagstaff, AZ. Thorne, J. H., J. A. Kennedy, J. F. Quinn, M. McCoy. T. Keeler-Wolf. and J. Menke. 2004. A vegetation map of Napa County using the manual of California vegetation classification and its comparison to other digital vegetation maps. Madroño, 51:343–363. University of California at Berkeley and Regents of the University of California (UCB). 2004. Jepson Online Interchange for California Floristics. Jepson Flora Project, Berkeley, CA. Accessed September–November 2004 from http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/interchange.html. USDA. 2004. The PLANTS Database, Version 3.5. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA. Accessed September 2004 from http://plants.usda.gov. USGS 1994. Final Draft Accuracy Assessment Procedures. NBS/NPS Vegetation Mapping Program. November 1994. [web citation: http://biology.usgs.gov/npsveg/aa/aa.html]. Vaghti, M. G. 2003. Riparian vegetation classification in relation to environmental gradients, Sacramento River, CA. Thesis. University of California, Davis. Vaghti, M. G. and S. Greco. 2005. Riparian Vegetation of the Great Valley. In: Barbour, M. G., T. Keeler-Wolf, and A. Schoenherr, eds. Terrestrial Vegetation of California. (In Press) University of California Press, Berkeley and Los Angeles. Vivrette, N. and C. Muller. 1977. Mechanisms of invasion and dominance of coastal grassland by Mesembryanthemum crystallinum. Ecological Monographs. 47:301–318. Vogl, R. J. 1976. An Introduction to the Plant Communities of the Santa Ana and San Jacinto Mountains. In: J. Latting, ed. Plant Communities of

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Southern California. California Native Plant Society. Berkeley, CA. 77–98. Weaver, J. E. 1960. Flood plain vegetation of the central Missouri Valley and contacts of woodland with prairie. Ecological Monographs. 30:37–64. Westman, W. E. 1981. Factors influencing the distribution of species of Californian coastal sage scrub. Ecology. 62:439–455. White, S. D. 1994. Coastal sage scrub series of western Riverside County, CA. Unpublished report. Tierra Madre Consultants Inc., Riverside, CA. White, S. .D, and W. D. Padley. 1997. Coastal Sage scrub series of western Riverside County, California. Madroño. 44:95–105. White, S. D. and J. O. Sawyer. 1995. Quercus wislizeni forest and Shrubland in the San Bernardino Mountains, CA. Madroño. 41:302–315. Zedler, J. B. 1982. The ecology of southern California coastal salt marshes: a community profile. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Biological Services Program, Washington, D.C. FWS/OBS-81/54. 110. Zembal, R. 1989. Riparian habitat and breeding birds along the Santa Margarita and Santa Ana rivers of southern California. In: A. A. Schoenherr, ed. Endangered plant communities of southern California. Southern California Botanists, California State University, Fullerton, CA. 98–113.

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Appendix E VEGETATION SAMPLING PROTOCOLS AND FIELD FORMS

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

APPENDIX 1. Vegetation Sampling Protocols and Field Forms CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY – VEGETATION RAPID ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL CNPS VEGETATION COMMITTEE (November 5, 2001, Revised SAMO July 23, 2002)

Introduction The rapid assessment protocol is a reconnaissance-level method of vegetation and habitat sampling. It may be used to quickly assess and map the extent of all vegetation types in relatively large, ecologically defined regions. The California Native Plant Society (CNPS) has adopted this method to verify locations of known vegetation types, to gain information about new types, and to acquire general information about their composition, habitat, and site quality. Other agencies, such as California State Parks and the U.S. Forest Service, are also adopting this method for documenting vegetation patterns. By using this method, biologists and resource managers can gain a broad ecological perspective, as the full range in ecological variation across broad landscapes can be reflected in the vegetation assessments. For example, changes in environmental elements (such as geology, aspect, topographic position) or physical processes (fire, flooding, erosion, and other natural or humanmade disturbances) can influence the distribution of plants or patterning of vegetation, which are documented in the rapid assessments. In turn, these vegetation patterns can influence the distribution of animals across the landscape. The quantitative vegetation data recorded in the rapid assessments can be described with standard classification techniques and descriptions, and they can be depicted in maps across any landscape. Additional information recorded in the assessments, such as disturbance history and anthropogenic impacts, can serve to define habitat quality and integrity for plant and animal distributions. Because this method provides an important means for representing the full array of biological diversity as well as habitat integrity in an area, it can also be an effective and efficient tool for conducting natural resource planning. Purpose The Vegetation Program has adopted the rapid assessment method to update the location, distribution, species composition, and disturbance information of vegetation types as identified in the first edition of A Manual of California Vegetation (MCV), a CNPS publication. The release of the MCV heralded a new statewide perspective on vegetation classification. The premise of the book – all vegetation can be quantified based on cover, constancy, and composition of plant species, yielding uniform defensible definitions of vegetation units – has proven to be very useful throughout California and the rest of the nation. The MCV has become the standard reference on California vegetation and has been adopted by many agencies such as

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California Department of Fish and Game, the National Park Service, and the U.S. Forest Service as the standard approach to classify vegetation statewide. One of the most important purposes of rapid assessments is to verify the locations of each vegetation type because much about the geography of vegetation remains uncertain in this state. To obtain a more accurate understanding of the location and distribution of the vegetation types, nothing short of systematic inventory will suffice. Using the rapid assessment method, CNPS Chapters and other organizations can work together in selected ecological regions to gather vegetation data over a short time period in a broad area. This geographic inventory of vegetation types can greatly advance the current distribution understanding of vegetation. In addition, California is working with a new vegetation classification, and its parameters are largely untested. The rapid assessment method will be used to gather additional information on species composition, distribution, disturbance effects, and environmental influences of vegetation. Thus, this method will provide modifications to the existing vegetation classifications and information on new types. This protocol can also be used in tandem with other resource assessment protocols such as California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR) protocols to obtain detailed records on habitat quality and suitability for vertebrate animals in any terrestrial habitat. The CWHR protocols can also help test the relationships between the vegetation type and habitat of various animals and thereby refine the understanding and predictability of the distribution of animals. A portion of the CWHR protocols is incorporated into the rapid assessment method to obtain suitability information for vertebrate species. While people can quickly obtain information on the variety of vegetation types using this method, some of the vegetation types recorded in the rapid assessment process may be poorly defined in the current classification system. These poorly understood or unknown types will be identified and located and then will be prioritized for more detailed assessment using the CNPS relevé protocol. Thus, the rapid assessment method will be used in conjunction with the relevé method to provide large quantities of valuable data on the distribution and the definition of vegetation. These data will be entered into existing databases for summarizing and archiving, and they will be used to modify and improve statewide vegetation classification and conservation information.

Why do we need to know about the composition and distribution of vegetation? • to have a more accurate understanding of the commonness and rarity of different forms of vegetation throughout the state • to link the distribution of various rare and threatened plant species with the vegetation units • to provide a clearer picture of relationships between vegetation types • to help prioritize community-based land conservation goals based on the local representation of unique types, high diversity areas, etc. C1188-1/c

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• • • •

to do the same for regional vegetation throughout the state and the nation. to broaden the vegetation knowledge base for California to motivate people to do more to help identify, protect, and conserve vegetation in their area to link vegetation types with habitat for animals

Selecting stands to sample: To start the rapid assessment method, stands of vegetation needs to be defined. A stand is the basic physical unit of vegetation in a landscape. It has no set size. Some vegetation stands are very small, such as alpine meadow or tundra types, and some may be several square kilometers in size, such as desert or forest types. A stand is defined by two main unifying characteristics: 1) It has compositional integrity. Throughout the site, the combination of species is similar. The stand is differentiated from adjacent stands by a discernable boundary that may be abrupt or indistinct. 2) It has structural integrity. It has a similar history or environmental setting that affords relatively similar horizontal and vertical spacing of plant species. For example, a hillside forest originally dominated by the same species that burned on the upper part of the slopes, but not the lower, would be divided into two stands. Likewise, a sparse woodland occupying a slope with very shallow rocky soils would be considered a different stand from an adjacent slope with deeper, moister soil and a denser woodland or forest of the same species. The structural and compositional features of a stand are often combined into a term called homogeneity. For an area of vegetated ground to meet the requirements of a stand, it must be homogeneous. Stands to be sampled may be selected by evaluation prior to a site visit (e.g. delineated from aerial photos or satellite images), or they may be selected on site (during reconnaissance to determine extent and boundaries, location of other similar stands, etc.). Depending on the project goals, you may want to select just one or a few representative stands of each homogeneous vegetation type for sampling (e.g. for developing a classification for a vegetation mapping project), or you may want to sample all of them (e.g. to define a rare vegetation type and/or compare site quality between the few remaining stands). Definitions of fields in the protocol LOCATIONAL/ENVIRONMENTAL DESCRIPTION

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Polygon/Stand #: Number assigned either in the field or in the office prior to sampling. It is usually denoted with an abbreviation of the sampling location and then a sequential number of that locale (e.g. CRRA-001 for Coyote Ridge rapid assessment number 1). Air photo #: The number given to the aerial photo in a vegetation-mapping project, for which photointerpreters have already done photointerpretation and delineations of polygons. If the sample site has not been photo-interpreted, leave blank. Date: Date of the sampling. Name(s) of surveyors: The full names of each person assisting should be provided for the first rapid assessment. In successive assessments, initials of each person assisting can be recorded. Please note: The person recording the data on the form should circle their name/initials. GPS waypoint #: The waypoint number assigned by a Global Positioning System (GPS) unit when marking and storing a waypoint for the stand location. These waypoints can be downloaded from the GPS into a computer Geographic Information System to depict sample points accurately on a map. GPS name: The name personally assigned to each GPS unit (especially useful if more than one GPS unit is used to mark waypoints for the project). GPS datum: (NAD 27) The map datum that is chosen for GPS unit to document location coordinates. The default datum for CNPS projects is NAD 27. However, other agencies and organizations may prefer another datum. Please circle NAD27 or write in the appropriate datum. Is GPS within stand? Yes / No Circle "Yes" to denote that the GPS waypoint was taken directly within or at the edge of the stand being assessed, or circle "No" to denoted the waypoint was taken at a distance from the stand (such as with a binocular view of the stand). If No cite distance (note ft/m), bearing and view from point to stand: An estimate of the number of feet or meters (please circle appropriate), the compass bearing from the waypoint of GPS to the stand, and the method of view used to verify the plot (e.g. binoculars, aerial photo). Error: ± The accuracy of the GPS location, when taking the UTM field reading. Please denote feet (ft) or meters (m). It is typical for all commercial GPS units to be accurate to within 5 m (or 16 ft.) of the actual location, because the military's intentional imprecision (known as "selective availability") has been "turned off" as of July 2000. Please become familiar with your GPS unit's method of determining error. Some of the lower cost models do not have this ability. If using one of those, insert N/A in this field.

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UTM field reading: Easting (UTME) and northing (UTMN) location coordinates using the Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) grid. Record using a GPS unit or USGS topographic map. UTM zone: Universal Transverse Mercator zone. Zone 10S for California west of the 120th longitude; zone 11S for California east of 120th longitude. Elevation: Recorded from the GPS unit or USGS topographic map. Please denote feet (ft) or meters (m), and note if reading is from GPS unit or map. (Please note: Readings taken from a GPS unit can be hundreds of feet off.) Photograph #'s: Note the roll number, frame number, direction, and the name of the person whose camera is being used. Take at least two photographs from different directions, and describe the location and view direction from compass bearings for each frame. Additional photographs of the stand may also be helpful. (Also, if using a digital camera or scanning the image into a computer, positions relative to the polygon/stand number can be recorded digitally.) Topography: Check two of the provided features, characterizing both the local relief and the broad topographic position of the area. First assess the minor topographic features or the lay of the area (e.g. surface is flat, concave, etc.). Then assess the broad topographic feature or general position of the area (e.g. stand is at the bottom, lower (1/3 of slope), middle (1/3 of slope), upper (1/3 of slope), or top). Geology: Geological parent material of site. If exact type is unknown, use a more general category (e.g. igneous, metamorphic, sedimentary). See code list for types. Soil: Record soil texture or series that is characteristic of the site (e.g. sand, silt, clay, coarse loamy sand, sandy clay loam, saline, et.). See soil texture key and code list for types. % Large Rock (optional): Estimate the percent surface cover of large rocks (e.g. stones, boulders, bedrock) that are beyond 25 cm in size. % Small Rock (optional): Estimate the percent surface cover of small rocks (e.g. gravel, cobbles) that are greater than 2 mm and less than 25 cm in size. % Bare/Fines (optional): Estimate the percent surface cover of bare ground and fine sediment (e.g. dirt) that is 2 mm or less in size. General slope exposure (circle one and enter actual º): Read degree aspect from a compass or clinometer (or estimate). Make sure to average the reading across entire stand. "Variable" may be selected if the same, homogenous stand of vegetation occurs across a varied range of slope exposures.

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General slope steepness (circle one and enter actual º): Read degree slope from compass (or estimate), using degrees from true north (adjusting for declination). Average the reading over entire stand. Upland or Wetland (circle one) Indicate if the stand is in an upland or a wetland; note that a site need not be officially delineated as a wetland to qualify as such in this context (e.g. seasonally wet meadow). Site history, stand age, and comments: Briefly describe the stand age/seral stage, disturbance history, nature and extent of land use, and other site environmental and vegetation factors. Examples of disturbance history: fire, landslides, avalanching, drought, flood, animal burrowing, or pest outbreak. Also, try to estimate year or frequency of disturbance. Examples of land use: grazing, timber harvest, or mining. Examples of other site factors: exposed rocks, soil with fine-textured sediments, high litter/duff build-up, multi-storied vegetation structure, or other stand dynamics. Type / level of disturbance (use codes): List codes for potential or existing impacts on the stability of the plant community. Characterize each impact each as L (=Light), M (=Moderate), or H (=Heavy). See code list for impacts. VEGETATION DESCRIPTION Basic alliance and stand description. Field-assessed vegetation alliance name: Name of alliance (series) or habitat following the CNPS classification system (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995). Please use binomial nomenclature, e.g. Quercus agrifolia forest. An alliance is based on the dominant (or diagnostic) species of the stand, and is usually of the uppermost and/or dominant height stratum. A dominant species covers the greatest area (and a diagnostic is consistently found in some vegetation types but not others). Please note: The field-assessed alliance name may not exist in present classification, in which you can provide a new alliance name in this field. If this is the case, also make sure to denote and explain this in the "Cannot identify alliance based on MCV classification" of the "Problems with Interpretation" section below. Field-assessed association name (optional): Name of the species in the alliance and additional dominant/diagnostic species from any strata, as according to CNPS classification. In following naming conventions, species in differing strata are separated with a slash, and species in the uppermost stratum are listed first (e.g. Quercus agrifolia/Toxicodendron diversilobum). Species in the same stratum are separated with a dash (e.g. Quercus agrifolia-Quercus kelloggii).

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Please note: The field-assessed association name may not exist in present classification, in which you can provide a new association name in this field. Size of stand: Estimate the size of the entire stand in which the rapid assessment is taken. As a measure, one acre is about 0.4 hectares or about 4000 square meters. Number of encounters of this alliance (tally/circle once): This estimate can be done for a landscape-level project of a general area, ecological subsection, watershed, etc., though it is not required. Make an estimate of the total number of times that this alliance was seen in the project survey and recorded on field forms. Please note: This estimation should only be done once, at the end of a project survey, for every alliance identified in the field. Please provide the tally once for each alliance, and provide the estimate on the first rapid assessment field form that was filled out for each alliance. Habitat classification per California Wildlife-Habitat Relationships (CWHR) For CWHR, identify the size/height class of the stand using the following tree, shrub, and/or herbaceous categories. These categories are based on functional life forms. Tree: Circle one of the tree size classes provided when the tree canopy closure exceeds 10 percent of the total cover (except in desert types), or if young tree density indicates imminent tree dominance. Size class is based on the average dbh (diameter of trunk at breast height). In choosing a size class, make sure to estimate the mean diameter of all trees over the entire stand. Circle the size class 6 multi-layered tree if there is a size class 5 of trees over a distinct layer of size class either 3 or 4 (i.e., distinct height class separation between different tree species) and the total tree canopy exceeds 60%. If tree, list 1-3 dominant overstory species: If tree canopy cover exceeds 10 percent (except in desert types), please list the dominant species that occur in the overstory canopy. Shrub: Circle one of the shrub size classes provided when shrub canopy closure exceeds 10 percent (except in desert types). Size class is based on the average amount of crown decadence (dead standing vegetation on live shrubs when looking across the crowns of the shrubs). Herbaceous: Circle one of the herb height classes provided when herbaceous cover exceeds 2 percent. This height class is based on the average plant height at maturity. Desert Palm/Joshua Tree: Circle one of the palm or Joshua tree size classes by averaging all the stem-base diameters (i.e., mean diameter of all stem-base sizes). Diameter is measured at the plant's base above the bulge near the ground. Desert Riparian Tree/Shrub: Circle one of the size classes by measuring mean stem height (whether tree and/or shrub stand).

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Overall cover of vegetation Provide an ocular estimate of cover for the following categories (based on functional life forms). Record a specific number for the total aerial cover or "bird's-eye view" looking from above for each category, estimating cover for the living plants only. Litter/duff should not be included in these estimates. To come up with a specific number estimate for percent cover, first use to the following CWHR cover intervals as a reference aid to get a generalized cover estimate: 5 m in height, M (=Medium) is between 0.5 and 5 m in height, and L (=Low) is 15-25%, >25-50%, >50-75%, >75%). Keeping these classes in mind, then refine your estimate to a specific percentage (e.g the cover of species "x" is somewhere between 25 and 50 percent, but I think it is actually around 30%). Please note: All estimates are to be reported as absolute cover (not relative cover), and all the species percent covers may total over 100% when added up because of overlap. Major nonnative species in stand (with % cover): All exotic species occurring in the stand should be listed in this space provided (or they can be recorded in the above Species list). Make sure to give each exotic species an absolute coverage estimate. Unusual species: List species that are either locally or regionally rare, endangered, or atypical (e.g. range extension or range limit) within the stand. This species list will be useful to the Program for obtaining data on regionally or locally significant populations of plants. PROBLEMS WITH INTERPRETATION Confidence in Identification: (L, M, H) With respect to the "field-assessed alliance name", note whether you have L (=Low), M (=Moderate), or H (=High) confidence in the interpretation of this alliance name. Low confidence can occur from such things as a poor view of the stand, an unusual mix of species that does not meet the criteria of any described alliance, or a low confidence in your ability to identify species that are significant members of the stand. Cannot identify alliance based on MCV classification? (Check if appropriate) and Explain: If the field-assessed alliance name is not defined by CNPS's present Manual of California Vegetation (MCV) classification, note this in the space and describe why. In some instances for specific projects, there may be the benefit of more detailed classifications than what is presented in the first edition of the MCV. If this is the case, be sure to substitute the most appropriate and detailed classification. Other identification problems (describe): Discuss any further problems with the identification of the assessment (e.g. stand is observed with an oblique view using binoculars, so the species list may be incomplete, or the cover percentages may be imperfect). Polygon is more than one type (Yes, No) (Note: type with greatest coverage in polygon should be entered in above section) This is relevant to areas that have been delineated as polygons on aerial photographs for a vegetation-mapping project. In most cases the polygon delineated is intended to represent a single stand, however mapping conventions and the constraints and interpretability of remote images will alter the ability to map actual stands on the

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ground. "Yes" is noted when the polygon delineated contains the field-assessed alliance and other vegetation type(s), as based on species composition and structure. "No" is noted when the polygon is primarily representative of the field-assessed alliance. Other types: If "Yes" above, then list the other subordinate vegetation alliances that are included within the polygon. List them in order of their amount of the polygon covered. Has the vegetation changed since air photo taken? (Yes, No) If an aerial photograph is being used for reference, evaluate if the stand of the field-assessed alliance has changed as a result of disturbance or other historic change since the photograph was taken. If Yes, how? What has changed (write N/A if so)? If the photographic signature of the vegetation has changed (e.g. in structure, density, or extent), please detail here.

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Simplified Key to Soil Texture (Brewer and McCann, 1982) Place about three teaspoons of soil in the palm of your hand. Take out any particles >2mm in size, and use the following key to figure out the soil texture (e.g. loamy sand). Then figure out the texture subclass by using the Code List attached (e.g. coarse loamy sand).

A1

Soil does not remain in a ball when squeezed................................…...............…....... sand

A2

Soil remains in a ball when squeezed............................................…...............…............. B

B1

Add a small amount of water. Squeeze the ball between your thumb and forefinger, attempting to make a ribbon that you push up over your finger. Soil makes no ribbon..................................…………………………………………..…….….loamy sand

B2

Soil makes a ribbon; may be very short........................................…................................C

C1

Ribbon extends less than 1 inch before breaking...........................................…...............D

C2

Ribbon extends 1 inch or more before breaking..............................................….............E

D1

Add excess water to small amount of soil; soil feels very gritty or at least slightly gritty .......................................................................................…...........loam or sandy loam

D2

Soil feels smooth.................................................................…................................silt loam

E1

Soil makes a ribbon that breaks when 1–2 inches long; cracks if bent into a ring...........F

E2

Soil makes a ribbon 2+ inches long; does not crack when bent into a ring.....................G

F1

Add excess water to small amount of soil; soil feels very gritty or at least slightly gritty.................................................................................….sandy clay loam or clay loam

F2

Soil feels smooth.........................................................................…...silty clay loam or silt

G1

Add excess water to a small amount of soil; soil feels gritty or at least slightly gritty...........................................................................................……....sandy clay or clay

G2

Soil feels smooth...............................................................................…..….........silty clay

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CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY RELEVÉ FIELD FORM CODE LIST (revised 7/8/02) MACRO TOPOGRAPHY 00 Bench 01 Ridge top (interfluve) 02 Upper 1/3 of slope 03 Middle 1/3 of slope 04 Lower 1/3 of slope (lowslope) 05 Toeslope (alluvial fan/bajada) 06 Bottom/plain 07 Basin/wetland 08 Draw 09 Other 10 Terrace (former shoreline or floodplain) 11 Entire slope 12 Wash (channel bed) 13 Badland (complex of draws & interfluves) 14 Mesa/plateau 15 Dune/sandfield 16 Pediment 17 Backslope (cliff) MICRO TOPOGRAPHY 01 Convex or rounded 02 Linear or even 03 Concave or depression 04 Undulating pattern 05 Hummock or Swale pattern 06 Mounded 07 Other

IMPACTS 01 Development 02 ORV activity 03 Agriculture 04 Grazing 05 Competition from exotics 06 Logging 07 Insufficient population/stand size 08 Altered flood/tidal regime 09 Mining 10 Hybridization 11 Groundwater pumping 12 Dam/inundation 13 Other 14 Surface water diversion 15 Road/trail construction/maint. 16 Biocides 17 Pollution 18 Unknown 19 Vandalism/dumping/litter 20 Foot traffic/trampling 21 Improper burning regime 22 Over collecting/poaching 23 Erosion/runoff 24 Altered thermal regime 25 Landfill 26 Degrading water quality 27 Wood cutting 28 Military operations 29 Recreational use (non ORV) 30 Nest parasitism 31 Nonnative predators 32 Rip-rap, bank protection 33 Channelization (human caused) 34 Feral pigs 35 Burros 36 Rills 37 Phytogenic mounding

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PARENT MATERIAL ANDE Andesite ASHT Ash (of any origin) GRAN Granitic (generic) GREE Greenstone DIOR Diorite BASA Basalt OBSI Obsidian PUMI Pumice IGTU Igneous (type unknown) MONZ Monzonite PYFL Pyroclastic flow QUDI Quartz diorite RHYO Rhyolite VOLC General volcanic extrusives VOFL Volcanic flow VOMU Volcanic mud BLUE Blue schist CHER Chert DOLO Dolomite FRME Franciscan melange INTR General igneous intrusives GNBG Gneiss/biotite gneiss HORN Hornfels MARB Marble METU Metamorphic (type unknown) PHYL Phyllite SCHI Schist SESC Semi-schist SLAT Slate BREC Breccia (non-volcanic) CACO Calcareous conglomerate CASA Calcareous sandstone CASH Calcareous shale CASI Calcareous siltstone CONG Conglomerate FANG Fanglomerate GLTI Glacial till, mixed origin, moraine LALA Large landslide (unconsolidated) LIME Limestone SAND Sandstone SETU Sedimentary (type unknown) SHAL Shale SILT Siltstone DIAB Diabase GABB Gabbro PERI Peridotite SERP Serpentine ULTU Ultramafic (type unknown) CALU Calcareous (origin unknown) DUNE Sand dunes LOSS Loess MIIG Mixed igneous MIME Mixed metamorphic MIRT Mix of two or more rock types MISE Mixed sedimentary CLAL Clayey alluvium GRAL Gravelly alluvium MIAL Mixed alluvium SAAL Sandy alluvium (most alluvial fans and washes) SIAL Silty alluvium OTHE Other than on list

688

SOIL TEXTURE COSA Coarse sand MESN Medium sand FISN Fine sand COLS Coarse, loamy sand MELS Medium to very fine, loamy sand MCSL Moderately coarse, sandy loam MESA Medium to very fine, sandy loam MELO Medium loam MESIL Medium silt loam MESI Medium silt MFCL Moderately fine clay loam MFSA Moderately fine sandy clay loam MFSL Moderately fine silty clay loam FISA Fine sandy clay FISC Fine silty clay FICL Fine clay SAND Sand (class unknown) LOAM Loam (class unknown) CLAY Clay (class unknown) UNKN Unknown DOMINANT VEGETATION GROUP Trees: TBSE Temperate broad-leaved seasonal evergreen forest TNLE Temperate or subpolar needle-leafed evergreen forest CDF Cold-deciduous forest MNDF Mixed needle-leafed evergreen-colddeciduous. forest TBEW Temperate broad-leaved evergreen woodland TNEW Temperate or subpolar needle-leaved evergreen woodland EXEW Extremely xeromorphic evergreen woodland CDW Cold-deciduous woodland EXDW Extremely xeromorphic deciduous woodland MBED Mixed broad-leaved evergreen-colddeciduous woodland MNDW Mixed needle-leafed evergreen-colddeciduous woodland Shrubs: TBES Temperate broad-leaved evergreen shrubland NLES Needle-leafed evergreen shrubland MIES Microphyllus evergreen shrubland EXDS Extremely xeromorphic deciduous shrubland CDS Cold-deciduous shrubland MEDS Mixed evergreen-deciduous shrubland XMED Extremely xeromorphic mixed evergreendeciduous shrubland Dwarf Shrubland: NMED Needle-leafed or microphyllous evergreen dwarf shrubland XEDS Extremely xeromorphic evergreen dwarf shrubland DDDS Drought-deciduous dwarf shrubland MEDD Mixed evergreen cold-deciduous dwarf shrubland Herbaceous: TSPG Temperate or subpolar grassland TGST Temperate or subpolar grassland with sparse tree TGSS Temperate or subpolar grassland with sparse shrublayer TGSD Temperate or subpolar grassland with sparse dwarf shrub layer TFV Temperate or subpolar forb vegetation

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

THRV

Temperate or subpolar hydromorphic rooted vegetation TAGF Temperate or subpolar annual grassland or forb vegetation Sparse Vegetation: SVSD Sparsely vegetated sand dunes SVCS Sparsely vegetated consolidated substrates

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VEGETATION RAPID ASSESSMENT / RELEVE FIELD FORM (Revised April 23, 2003--SAMO) For Office Use:

Final database #:

Final vegetation type Alliance______________________________________________ name: Association___________________________________________ LOCATIONAL/ENVIRONMENTAL DESCRIPTION FinalAISCode: _______________ Polygon/Stand #: Air photo #: Date: Name(s) of surveyors: InitialAISCode FieldCrewCode

_____________

_____________

____________

________________________

____________

GPS waypoint #: __________ GPS name: ________________ GPS datum: (NAD 27) ________

If No cite: distance ______m, secant/100 + / - _____, bearing _____ If RELEVE, center of plot? Yes / No UTM field reading:

UTME __ _ _ __ _ _ __ _ __ _ _ _

____________

Is GPS within stand? Yes / No Error: ±______ ft/m

UTM zone: ______________

UTMN __ _ _ __ _ _ __ _ __ _ _ _ __ _

Elevation: ___________ ft/m Photograph #’s: ______________________________________________________________________ Topography: flat____

concave____

convex____

undulating____ | bottom____

Geology: ________________ Soil Texture: ______________ Slope exposure: NE_______

SE_______

Slope steepness: 0º__ 1-5º ____

5-25º____

SW_______

lower____

mid____

upper____

top____

% Large Rock______ % Small Rock______ % Bare/Fines______ NW_______

Flat__

Variable__

%Litter__________

> 25º____ Size of stand: 5 acres ___ Upland or Wetland

Site history, stand age, and comments: _____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Type / level of disturbance (use codes): _____________________________________________________________________________ VEGETATION DESCRIPTION Field-assessed vegetation alliance name: ___________________________________________________________________________ Field-assessed association name (optional): __________________________________________________________________________ Tree: T1 (24” dbh), T6 multi-layered (T3 or T4 layer under T5, >60% cover) If Tree, list 1-3 dominant overstory spp.: ___________________________________________________________________________ Shrub: S1 seedling (15-25%, >25-50%, >50-75%, >75% Strata Species

% cover

Strata Species

% cover

Major non-native species (with % cover): __________________________________________________________________________ Unusual species: _______________________________________________________________________________________________ PROBLEMS WITH INTERPRETATION

Bino Assessed Only? Yes / No

Confidence in identification: (L, M, H) ID problems: ________________________________________________________ Polygon is more than one type: (Yes, No) ________ Other types: ______________________________________________________ Has the vegetation changed since air photo taken? (Yes, No) _____ If Yes, how? What has changed (write N/A if so)? _______ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Plot Length (m) ________ Plot Width _________ If circle, diam __________ Plot Permanent? Y / N RELEVE INFO Representativeness of plot in stand: ________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Releve Protocol Santa Monica Mtns NRA June 11, 2003 This document is intended to provide general instructions and guidelines for conducting Releves at SAMO NRA. Parts have been adapted from the Yosemite Releve Protocol or CNPS Rapid Assessment Protocol. For SAMO NRA, the Releve has essentially become an in-depth Rapid Assessment. That is to say essentially the same information is gathered for a Rapid Assessment as for a Releve with the addition of a complete species list. The other main difference between the two protocols is that for Releves, the species list is compiled from within a defined area as opposed to the entire stand. The same field form is used for both RA and Releve information. However, not all fields are required for both data types.

Establishing a Plot 1) Figure out where to place your plot. This is a subjective process. You'll want to place your plots in areas that seem to be both relatively homogenous and representative of the vegetation of the polygon as a whole. In other words, avoid areas where the vegetation appears to be transitioning from one type to another, and areas with anomalous or heterogeneous structure or species composition. Take some time to do this carefully, because the plots you set up may become permanent; relocated and resampled over time in order to determine responses to management, and other useful things. Look at all the vegetation strata to determine if the area is structurally and floristically uniform and generally try to place your plots a fair distance from what you see as the 'boundary' between this vegetation type and any neighboring, distinctly different types. However, the rule-of-thumb is to conduct a reconnaissance of the plot if time and topography allows. Note: In cases where a polygon is very heterogeneous, more than one plot may be needed. Again, look around, use that human perception. 2) Take GPS information from CENTER of plot. Remember that this may become a permanent plot, so being able to find it again will be key: use the GPS, rather than estimating! (If you cannot get a GPS reading, estimate the coordinates from the topo map and note on the form that you had to resort to this method.) Note: You can deviate from the standard plot shapes where that makes sense, but the total plot area encompassed by the boundaries should be as listed above for each major class of vegetation. For example, forested riparian vegetation, may be sampled in a more linear, 10 x 100 m (1000 m2) plot; herbaceous riparian or ridgeline vegetation in a 2 x 50 m (100 m2) plot. Standard plot sizes

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

If you're in a ... Forest (trees have their crowns overlapping, usually forming 60-100% cover) Woodland (open stands of trees with crowns usually not touching. Canopy tree cover is 25-60% Or exceeds shrub, dwarf-shrub, herb, and nonvascular cover). Shrubland (shrubs greater than 0.5 m tall are dominant, usually forming more than 25% cover OR exceeding tree, dwarf-shrub, herb, and nonvascular cover) Dwarf-shrubland (shrubs less than 0.5 m tall are dominant, usually forming more than 25% cover OR exceeding tree, shrub, herb, and nonvascular cover). Herbaceous (herbs dominant, usually forming more than 25% cover OR exceeding tree, shrub, dwarfshrub, and nonvascular cover). Nonvascular (nonvascular cover dominant, usually forming more than 25% cover).

You should make your plot... 20 m x 50 m

Giving you a plot area of... 1000 m2

20 m x 50 m

1000 m2

20 m x 20 m

400 m2

20 m x 20 m

400 m2

10 m x 10 m

100 m2

5mx5m

25 m2

Notes on Compiling Species list: As you begin to collect the species, DBH, and cover information on page two, keep these four rules in mind—they will speed your data collection considerably: 1) If there are more than 25 trees over 10 cm DBH, measure a representative quarter of the plot (this may be any portion of the plot but should be 25% of the total plot area. CLEARLY NOTE on the form where this sub-sample was taken. Also, remember that DBH is an inherently inexact measurement (your 'breast height may be very different from the next ecologist's for one thing), so don't fret over this one—this should be a quick measurement! 2) Except in very diverse plots, don't spend more than 20 minutes looking for new and different species to record. Remember that these plot data are to be used to classify the overall vegetation of the Park, not to make a complete species list for it. And if you had to spend much more than 20 minutes to find a species, it probably isn't going to be important in characterizing the vegetation type. For diverse plots with over 25 taxa you may take up to 30 minutes on the listing process. 3) We have asked you to estimate in cover classes, but often it is helpful to make and attempt to estimate an actual percent cover for certain species. This may be useful in getting a sense of total vegetation cover (by adding percentages) and in determining to which category a species that is a

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borderline between two cover classes should be assigned. Try not to agonize over the percent cover column. This is only a rough visual estimate. 4) If you can't identify a plant to species, record the species on your form as "unknown species 1," "unknown species 2," "Carex unknown sp. 1," etC. Record cover class and other data for the unknown as you would for any other species. If you need the species identified right away because it appears to be dominant or diagnostic (you're seeing it all over the place or you're seeing much more in this particular vegetation type than in others), take a sample of the species with as much of the plant as possible, especially intact sexual parts, if present. Place the sample in a baggie, and label the baggie with the plot code and the name you gave it on the data form. On an office day, take the time to key the plant out. If unable to get a definite ID, bag the plant and give it to the Inventory and Monitoring Botanist or send it to the UCLA herbarium curator. Definitions of fields in the protocol LOCATIONAL/ENVIRONMENTAL DESCRIPTION Polygon/Stand #: Number assigned either in the field or in the office prior to sampling. If it is a polygon that AIS has requested information on, assign it the AIS number given on the In-house Field Map. If AIS has not requested information on the polygon (no AIS number to be assigned), use the next sequential number from your team's list of Releve numbers. Also be sure to label the location on paper copy of the photo overlay. Air photo #: The number given to the aerial photo in a vegetation-mapping project, for which photointerpreters have already done photointerpretation and delineations of polygons. If the sample site has not been photo-interpreted, leave blank. Date: Date of the sampling. Name(s) of surveyors: The full names of each person assisting should be provided for their first rapid assessment. In successive assessments, initials of each person assisting can be recorded. Please note: The person recording the data on the form should circle their name/initials. Initial AIS Code: 4-digit mapping classification code assigned by AIS at time of initial interpretation. Field Crew Code: 4-digit code mapping classification code assigned by Field crew upon completion of form. This should correspond as closely as possible to the Field Alliance and Association Name (see below).

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GPS waypoint #: The waypoint number assigned by a Global Positioning System (GPS) unit when marking and storing a waypoint for the stand location. These waypoints can be downloaded from the GPS into a computer Geographic Information System to depict sample points accurately on a map. GPS name: The name personally assigned to each GPS unit (especially useful if more than one GPS unit is used to mark waypoints for the project). GPS datum: (NAD 27) The map datum that is chosen for GPS unit to document location coordinates. The default datum for CNPS projects as well as SAMO projects is NAD 27. Please circle NAD27 or write in the appropriate datum. Is GPS within stand? Yes / No Circle"Yes" to denote that the GPS waypoint was taken directly within or at the edge of the stand being assessed, or circle "No" to denoted the waypoint was taken at a distance from the stand (such as with a binocular view of the stand). For Releves, there is an additional field "If RELEVE, center of plot?". Be sure to describe location of the point if not taken at center. If No cite distance (note ft/m), bearing and view from point to stand: An estimate of the number of feet or meters (please circle appropriate), the compass bearing from the waypoint of GPS to the stand, and the method of view used to verify the plot (e.g. binoculars, aerial photo). If Releve, Center of plot? Yes/No If the plot being gathered is a releve, was the GPS point taken at the center of the releve? If it is not in the center, describe the location in the notes section. Error: ± The accuracy of the GPS location, when taking the UTM field reading. Please denote feet (ft) or meters (m). It is typical for all commercial GPS units to be accurate to within 5 m (or 16 ft.) of the actual location, because the military's intentional imprecision (known as "selective availability") has been "turned off" as of July 2000. Please become familiar with your GPS unit's method of determining error. Some of the lower cost models do not have this ability. If using one of those, insert N/A in this field. UTM field reading: Easting (UTME) and northing (UTMN) location coordinates using the Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) grid. Record UTMs using a GPS unit (preferred) or InHouse Topographic Field Maps. UTM zone: Universal Transverse Mercator zone. Zone is 11 for all of SAMO. Elevation: Recorded from the GPS unit or USGS topographic map. Please denote feet (ft) or meters (m), and note if reading is from GPS unit or map. (Please note: Readings taken from a GPS unit can be hundreds of feet off.)

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Photograph #'s: Note the roll number, frame number, direction, and the name of the person whose camera is being used. Take at least two photographs from different directions, and describe the location and view direction from compass bearings for each frame. Additional photographs of the stand may also be helpful. Topography: Check two of the provided features, characterizing both the local relief and the broad topographic position of the area. First assess the minor topographic features or the lay of the area (e.g. surface is flat, concave, etc.). Then assess the broad topographic feature or general position of the area (e.g. stand is at the bottom, lower (1/3 of slope), middle (1/3 of slope), upper (1/3 of slope), or top). . In general, this should describe both the entire stand and the Releve plot as the releve location should represent the overall conditions of the stand. Geology: Geological parent material of site. If exact type is unknown, use a more general category (e.g. igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary). See code list for types. Soil: Record soil texture or series that is characteristic of the site (e.g. sand, silt, clay, coarse loamy sand, sandy clay loam, saline, etc.). See soil texture key and code list for types. % Large Rock (optional): Estimate the percent surface cover of large rocks (e.g. stones, boulders, bedrock) that are beyond 25 cm in size. % Small Rock (optional): Estimate the percent surface cover of small rocks (e.g. gravel, cobbles) that are greater than 2 mm and less than 25 cm in size. % Bare/Fines (optional): Estimate the percent surface cover of bare ground and fine sediment (e.g. dirt) that is 2 mm or less in size. % Litter (optional): Estimate the percent surface cover of organic litter. General slope exposures (circle one and enter actual º): Read degree aspect from a compass (or estimate), using degrees from true north (adjusting for declination). Make sure to average the reading across entire stand. "Variable" may be selected if the same, homogenous stand of vegetation occurs across a varied range of slope exposures. In general, this should describe both the entire stand and the Releve plot as the releve location should represent the overall conditions of the stand. General slope steepness (circle one and enter actual º): Read degree slope from compass or clinometer (or estimate). Average the reading over entire stand. In general, this should describe both the entire stand and the Releve plot as the releve location should represent the overall conditions of the stand.

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Upland or Wetland (circle one): Indicate if the stand is an upland or a wetland; note that a site need not be officially delineated as a wetland to qualify as such in this context (e.g. seasonally wet meadow). Site history, stand age, and comments: Briefly describe the stand age/serial stage, disturbance history, nature and extent of land use, and other site environmental and vegetation factors. Examples of disturbance history: fire, landslides, avalanching, drought, flood, animal burrowing, or pest outbreak. Also, try to estimate year or frequency of disturbance. Examples of land use: grazing, timber harvest, or mining. Examples of other site factors: exposed rocks, soil with finetextured sediments, high litter/duff build-up, multi-storied vegetation structure, or other stand dynamics. Type / level of disturbance (use codes): List codes for potential or existing impacts on the stability of the plant community. Characterize each impact each as L (=Light), M (=Moderate), or H (=Heavy). See code list for impacts. VEGETATION DESCRIPTION Basic alliance and stand description. Field-assessed vegetation alliance name: Name of alliance (series) or habitat following the CNPS classification system (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995). Please use binomial nomenclature, e.g. Quercus agrifolia forest. An alliance is based on the dominant (or diagnostic) species of the stand, and is usually of the uppermost and/or dominant height stratum. A dominant species covers the greatest area (and a diagnostic is consistently found in some vegetation types but not others). Please note: The field-assessed alliance name may not exist in present classification, in which you can provide a new alliance name in this field. Field-assessed association name (optional): Name of the species in the alliance and additional dominant/diagnostic species from any strata, as according to CNPS classification. In following naming conventions, species in differing strata are separated with a slash, and species in the uppermost stratum are listed first (e.g. Quercus agrifolia/Toxicodendron diversilobum). Species in the same stratum are separated with a dash (e.g. Quercus agrifolia-Quercus kelloggii). Please note: The field-assessed association name may not exist in present classification, in which you can provide a new association name in this field. Size of stand: Estimate the size of the entire stand in which the rapid assessment is taken. As a measure, one acre is about 0.4 hectares or about 4000 square meters.

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Number of encounters of this alliance (tally/circle once): This estimate can be done for a landscape-level project of a general area, ecological subsection, watershed, etc., though it is not required. Make an estimate of the total number of times that this alliance was seen in the project survey and recorded on field forms. Please note: This estimation should only be done once, at the end of a project survey, for every alliance identified in the field. Please provide the tally once for each alliance, and provide the estimate on the first rapid assessment field form that was filled out for each alliance. Habitat classification per California Wildlife-Habitat Relationships (CWHR) For CWHR, identify the size/height class of the stand using the following tree, shrub, and/or herbaceous categories. These categories are based on functional life forms. Tree: Circle one of the tree size classes provided when the tree canopy closure exceeds 10 percent of the total cover (except in desert types), or if young tree density indicates imminent tree dominance. Size class is based on the average dbh (diameter of trunk at breast height). In choosing a size class, make sure to estimate the mean diameter of all trees over the entire stand. Circle the size class 6 multi-layered tree if there is a size class 5 of trees over a distinct layer of size class either 3 or 4 (i.e., distinct height class separation between different tree species) and the total tree canopy exceeds 60%. If tree, list 1-3 dominant overstory species: If tree canopy cover exceeds 10 percent (except in desert types), please list the dominant species that occur in the overstory canopy. Shrub: Circle one of the shrub size classes provided when shrub canopy closure exceeds 10 percent (except in desert types). Size class is based on the average amount of crown decadence (dead standing vegetation on live shrubs when looking across the crowns of the shrubs). Herbaceous: Circle one of the herb height classes provided when herbaceous cover exceeds 2 percent. This height class is based on the average plant height at maturity. Desert Palm/Joshua Tree: Circle one of the palm or Joshua tree size classes by averaging all the stem-base diameters (i.e., mean diameter of all stem-base sizes). Diameter is measured at the plant's base above the bulge near the ground. Desert Riparian Tree/Shrub: Circle one of the size classes by measuring mean stem height (whether tree and/or shrub stand). Overall cover of vegetation Provide an ocular estimate of cover for the following categories (based on functional life forms). Record a specific number for the total aerial cover or "bird's-eye view" looking from above for each C1188-1/c

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

category, estimating cover for the living plants only. Litter/duff should not be included in these estimates. To come up with a specific number estimate for percent cover, first use to the following CWHR cover intervals as a reference aid to get a generalized cover estimate: 5 m in height, M (=Medium) is between 0.5 and 5 m in height, and L (=Low) is 5-10% >10-20% >20-30% >30-40% >40-50% >50-60% >60-70% >70-80% >80-90% >90-100%

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Height Scale: 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10

50 m

Cover Scale 2: 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 00

5-15% >15-25% >25-50% >50-75% >75-100% 0

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National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Cover Scale 1 was used for all parts of the AA from the start of the project until August 30, 2004. It continues to be used for cover of unvegetated surface. Cover Scale 2 was implemented for strata and species covers on August 30, 2004. AA Comments: Describe polygon heterogeneity. How much of polygon was assessed? Certainty of AA?

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Database Code ________________________

Initial AIS _________________________

PARK VEGETATION MAPPING PROGRAM: ACCURACY ASSESSMENT POINT FORM Updated 12 August 2005

IDENTIFIERS/LOCATORS

Field Point Number_________________ Air Photo ______________ Date________________ Surveyors_____________________ State CA Park Name Santa Monica Mtns.

Park Site Name ___________________________ Quad _____________ Region ____

Primary Veg Assoc Name _________________________________________________________________ Code________________ Secondary Veg Assoc Name_______________________________________________________________ Code________________ Other Veg Assocs within 50 m ___________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Classification Comments: (does it key easily? Are all diagnostic species present in proper proportions? If not how does it differ?)

GPS File name_____________ GPS Unit__________________ GPS datum: (WGS 84)_______ GPS in Stand? Yes / No Field UTME___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ m X Field UTMN___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ m Y

UTM Zone__11___ GPS Error _______ ft / m

If not is stand: Distance (m) ________ Secant reading+/-_________ Compass bearing________ Corrected UTM X___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ m Corrected UTM Y___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ m N

ENVIRONMENTAL DESCRIPTION Elevation ________ft/m

Slope exposure: NE______

SE______

SW______

NW______

Flat__

Variable__

Slope steepness: 0º__ 1-5º ____ 5-25º____ > 25º____ Topography: flat____ concave____ convex____ undulating____ | bottom____ lower____ mid____ upper____ top____ Environmental Comments (including hydrology, fire history)

Unvegetated Surface: (please use the cover scale below)

Veg Changed since photo? Yes / No How?____________________________

___ Large rocks (cobbles, boulders > 10 cm) ___ Small rocks (gravel, 0.2-10 cm) ___ Bare/Fine ___ Litter

VEGETATION DESCRIPTION Leaf Type Leaf phenology (of dominant stratum) Trees and Shrubs ___1 Evergreen ___2 Cold-deciduous ___3Drought-deciduous ___4 Mixed evergreen - cold-deciduous ___5 Mixed evergreen drought-deciduous Herbs ___1 Annual ___2 Perennial

Physiognomic class

(of dominant stratum)

___1 Broad-leaved ___2 Needle-leaved 3 Mixed broad-leaved/Needle leaved ___4 Microphyllous ___5 Graminoid ___6 Forb ___7 Pteridophyte

___1 Forest ___2 Woodland ___3 Shrubland ___4 Dwarf Shrubland ___5 Herbaceous ___6 Nonvascular ___7 Sparsely Vegetated

Cover Scale for Unvegetated Surface 01 0-5% 02 >5-10% 03 >10-20% 04 >20-30% 05 >30-40% 06 >40-50% 07 >50-60% 08 >60-70% 09 >70-80% 10 >80-90% 11 >90-100%

Strata

Height

T1 Emergent

_____

Cover Class/% ___/___

T2 Canopy

_____

___/___

___________________________________ ___________________________________ ___________________________________

_________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________

T3 Sub-canopy

_____

___/___

___________________________________ ___________________________________

_________________________________ _________________________________

S1 Tall shrub

_____

___/___

___________________________________ ___________________________________ ___________________________________ ___________________________________ ___________________________________

_________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________

S2 Short Shrub

_____

___/___

___________________________________ ___________________________________ ___________________________________ ___________________________________ ___________________________________ ___________________________________

_________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________

S3 Dwarf-shrub

_____

___/___

___________________________________ ___________________________________

_________________________________ _________________________________

H Herbaceous

_____

___/___

___________________________________ _________________________________ ___________________________________ _________________________________ ___________________________________ _________________________________ ___________________________________ _________________________________ ___________________________________ _________________________________

N Non-vascular

_____

___/___

___________________________________

_________________________________

V Vine/liana

_____

_________________________________

_____

___/___ ___/___ ___/___

___________________________________

E Epiphyte

___________________________________

_________________________________

Heterogeneity: Polygon is generally

(mark any known diagnostic species with a * ) Dominant Spp. %cover CvrCls Dominant Spp. %cover CvrCls ___________________________________ _________________________________ ___________________________________ _________________________________

Inclusions: Other types in polygon

% of polygon

(not included in species list) ______ 1 Homogeneous (>85% 1 type)

______ 2 Composed of

similar types

(similar taxonomic composition and physiognomy)

______ 3 Composed of

dissimilar types

AA Comments (Further describe polygon heterogeneity; how much polygon assessed?; aa certainty?)

Cover Scale: Strata and Species 01 5-15% 04 >15-25% 05 >25-50% 06 >50-75% 07 >75-100% 00 0 CC scale changed August 30, 2004

Height Scale:

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10

Strata 50 m

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Observation Protocol Santa Monica Mountains NRA June 11, 2003 The observation form has been developed as a way to efficiently provide photointerpretors with basic information on specified polygons. The photointerpretors do not always need the complete information of a Rapid Assessment but rather a quick confirmation or check of a photo signature. This form in combination with the Priority Categories listed below significantly speeds and focuses data collection. The use of this form is up to the discretion of the field crew. If you feel the additional information in an RA would be very helpful to AIS, perform an RA. Crews do not have to fill out form completely for each polygon depending information needed and how close AIS is to correct code. Remember to label these on the RA sheets so that other teams know information has already been gathered there. Definitions of Data Fields Air photo #: The number given to the aerial photo in a vegetation-mapping project, for which photointerpreters have already done photointerpretation and delineations of polygons. If the sample site has not been photo-interpreted, leave blank. Data from only one air photo should be recorded on the same observation sheet. Date(s): Date(s) of the sampling. Name(s) of surveyors: Initials of each person assisting can be recorded. Polygon/Stand #: Number assigned either in the field or in the office prior to sampling. Initial AIS Code: 4-digit mapping classification code assigned by AIS at time of initial interpretation. Field Crew Code: 4-digit code mapping classification code assigned by Field crew upon completion of form. This should correspond as closely as possible to the Field Alliance and Association Name (see below). Confidence in Identification: (L, M, H) With respect to the "field-assessed alliance name", note whether you have L (=Low), M (=Moderate), or H (=High) confidence in the interpretation of this alliance name. Low confidence can occur from such things as a poor view of the stand, an unusual mix of species that does not meet the criteria of any described alliance, or a low confidence in your ability to identify species that are significant members of the stand.

C1188-1/c

711

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Problems (describe): Discuss any further problems with the identification of the assessment (e.g. stand is observed with an oblique view using binoculars, so the species list may be incomplete, or the cover percentages may be imperfect). General slope exposures (circle one and enter actual º): Read degree aspect from a compass (or estimate), using degrees from true north (adjusting for declination). Make sure to average the reading across entire stand. "Variable" may be selected if the same, homogenous stand of vegetation occurs across a varied range of slope exposures. In general, this should describe both the entire stand and the Releve plot as the releve location should represent the overall conditions of the stand. General slope steepness (circle one and enter actual º): Read degree slope from compass or clinometer (or estimate). Average the reading over entire stand. In general, this should describe both the entire stand and the Releve plot as the releve location should represent the overall conditions of the stand. Bino Assessed Only? (circle one): If the polygon was only viewed through binoculars and was not entered into, circle yes. Site history, stand age, and comments: Briefly describe the stand age/serial stage, disturbance history, nature and extent of land use, and other site environmental and vegetation factors. Also include any other notes that may be of help to photointerpretors. Field-assessed alliance/association: Name of alliance (series) or association following the CNPS classification system (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995). Please use binomial nomenclature, e.g. Quercus agrifolia forest. An alliance is based on the dominant (or diagnostic) species of the stand, and is usually of the uppermost and/or dominant height stratum. A dominant species covers the greatest area (and a diagnostic is consistently found in some vegetation types but not others). Please note: The field-assessed alliance or assocation name may not exist in present classification, in which you can provide a new alliance name in this field. %Overstory Conifer/Hardwood Tree cover: The total aerial cover (canopy closure) of all live tree species that are specifically in the overstory or are emerging, disregarding overlap of individual trees. Estimate conifer and hardwood covers separately. Please note: These cover values should not include the coverage of suppressed understory trees. Shrub cover: The total aerial cover (canopy closure) of all live shrub species, disregarding overlap of individual shrubs. Ground cover: The total aerial cover (canopy closure) of all herbaceous species, disregarding overlap of individual herbs.

C1188-1/c

712

January 2006

National Park Service Vegetation Classification of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Environs in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, California

Total Veg cover: The total aerial cover of all vegetation. This is an estimate of the absolute vegetation cover, disregarding overlap of the various tree, shrub, and/or herbaceous layers. Species list and coverage Species (List up to 6 major species), Stratum, and Approximate % cover: (Jepson Manual nomenclature please) List the species that are dominant or that are characteristically consistent throughout the stand. When different layers of vegetation occur in the stand, make sure to list species from each stratum. As a general guide, make sure to list at least 1-2 of the most abundant species per stratum. Provide a stratum code for each species listed, based on height, where T (=Tall) is >5 m in height, M (=Medium) is between 0.5 and 5 m in height, and L (=Low) is 25º _____

Site comments: _________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Field-assessed alliance/association: ___________________________________________________________________________ % Overstory Conifer/Hardwood Tree cover: _____/_____ Shrub cover: _____ Herbaceous cover: _____ Total Veg cover:______ Strata Species

% cover

Strata Species

% cover

Other Notes: ____________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Polygon/Stand #:

InitialAISCode

FieldCrewCode

Confidence in identification: (L, M, H) ______

_____________

____________

____________

Problems: ______________________________________________

Topography: flat__ concave__ convex__ undulating__ | bottom__ lower__ mid__ upper__ top__ Slope exposure: Actual_______

Flat__

Bino Assessed Only? Yes/No

Variable__

Slope steepness : 0º__ 1-5º _____ 5-25º_____ > 25º _____

Site comments: _________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Field-assessed alliance/association: ___________________________________________________________________________ % Overstory Conifer/Hardwood Tree cover: _____/_____ Shrub cover: _____ Herbaceous cover: _____ Total Veg cover:______ Strata Species

% cover

Strata Species

% cover

Polygon/Stand #:

InitialAISCode

FieldCrewCode

Confidence in identification: (L, M, H) ______

_____________

____________

____________

Problems: ______________________________________________

Topography: flat__ concave__ convex__ undulating__ | bottom__ lower__ mid__ upper__ top__ Slope exposure: Actual_______ Bino Assessed Only? Yes/No

Flat__

Variable__

Slope steepness : 0º__ 1-5º _____ 5-25º_____ > 25º _____

Site comments: _________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Field-assessed alliance/association: ___________________________________________________________________________ % Overstory Conifer/Hardwood Tree cover: _____/_____ Shrub cover: _____ Herbaceous cover: _____ Total Veg cover:______ Strata Species

% cover

Strata Species

% cover